•Known for its beautiful blue water and incredible resorts, the Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, although it has so much more to offer. Underneath the shores lies a flourishing, unique culture shaped by hundreds of years of influences from South Asia, Africa, the and Middle East.
1)History and Influences
Because of its position along the major trading routes, the Maldives has blended other cultures into its own. While early settlers came from Sri Lanka and southern India, and populated the islands with Buddhist beliefs, it was the Arab traders whose established and defined Maldivian culture. They brought Islam around the 12th century and, today, Islam is still the prevailing religion in the Maldives. Other influences originated from Africa and Southeast Asia, resulting in the emergence of Maldivian culture.
2)Language and Religion
The national language is Dhivehi, which is an Indo-Aryan language taught in Thaana script. Islam has shaped Maldivian culture in many areas of every day life including religious practices, lectical law, holidays, traditional structures and activities, and festivals. The call to prayer can be heard all over the islands five times per day. Celebrating Eid is one of the more well known and popular festivals to celebrate in the Maldives as well.
3)Folk Arts and Music
The role of tradition and celebrations in Maldivian life is expressed through music and dance. Bodu Beru, meaning "big drum," is performed in a group to drum rhythms, dancing, and chanting. Additionally, craftsmanship is alive in the Maldives as lacquer work, mat weaving, and traditional fishing vessels called dhonis are valued skills passed from generation to generation.
4)Food
The Maldivian diet is based on fish (particularly tuna), coconut, and rice. Favorites include mas huni (a mixture of tuna, onion coconut, and chili) and garudhiya (a clear fish soup). Maldivian cuisine has been influenced by South Indian and Sri Lankan traditions, therefore it tends to be spicy and aromatic, as is typical in many of the curries.
5) Modern CultureIn
many atolls, traditional life continues to hang on, but modern day Maldivian life is changing, and especially in the capital, Malé. There is a growing interest in contemporary art, literature and music, and with technology and tourism, the country's youth are becoming more connected to the world around them
.Conclusion
The Maldives is more than beautiful landscapes and sea - it is a country steeped in culture. From its ancient ways of life at sea to its vibrant music and food, Maldivian culture is a gem for new travelers to discover.
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