The Maldives is not just a scenic paradise but also a fascinating destination steeped in rich culture and tradition. The Maldivians have been influenced by multiple cultural elements from neighbouring and trading countries like India, Sri Lanka, Arab, and North Africa. Their lifestyle was eventually incorporated into Maldives’ culture and tradition, making it vibrant and eclectic.

Discover What The Maldives is Known for Regarding Its Culture And Traditions

Language

Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives. It finds its roots in the Indo-Iranian-Sanskrit influence. The language is related to Sri Lankan Sinhalese and some Indian languages but is written in the Thaana script from right to left, similar to Arabic. Another interesting fact is that the locals are called Dhivehin, whose origins come from the Indian word ‘deevi,’ meaning island. The Dhivehi language was eventually created through languages from various countries.

Religion

Islam is the state religion in the Maldives, and most of its cultural festivities are based on the lunar calendar. The presence of many beautiful mosques on the island of Male makes it abundantly clear that all citizens of Maldives practice Islam as decreed by law. All the laws in the Maldives are based on Sharia Law. Hence, as part of the traditions of Maldives, you will find the lack of alcohol and pork available on the mainland. Thankfully for tourists, most resorts have a special license to serve alcohol that allows you to enjoy your beverages on the tropical paradise island.

Dress

Due to the Maldivians predominately having the Muslim faith, the locals are conservative and dress traditionally. As a tourist, it’s recommended that you follow the Maldives culture dress and be fully clothed while swimming at the beaches on the mainland unless you are swimming at a designated bikini beach. However, the resort islands and its guests are exempt from this rule; hence, you may be free to dress up in a swimming attire of your choice.

Cultures of Maldives

Maldivian Cuisine

Similar to Maldivian culture, the cuisine of Maldives has drawn influence from its neighbouring countries. The cuisine is majorly dependent on the sea, with fish like fresh tuna, snapper, and lobster being an integral part of the Maldives’ food culture. The cooking style again draws influence from Arab, Indian, and Sri Lankan styles. Most Maldivian cuisine is made with coconut-based products like coconut oil and milk and is generally in the form of hot and spicy curries, soups, and other delicacies served with rice. All the resorts offer international cuisine and local cuisines of your choice. Many resorts offer all-inclusive Maldives trip packages so you can indulge in a wide range of cuisines for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Arts and Crafts

The Maldivians are known to be expert artisans who are incredibly skilled at wood carving and lacquer. You will find a lot of beautiful and intricate designs around the various islands, especially the carvings on the mosques. The native women are creative and use traditional methods to make beautiful household items. The woven mats are made of dyed reeds and later woven into beautiful intricate patterns. You can also find beautiful jewelry using local products and add to the culture of Maldives.

Music and Dance in the Maldives

Music and dance form an integral part of the culture of Maldives and seem to be heavily influenced by North Indian styles or Bollywood films. Locals are very fond of old Hindi songs that remain evergreen and sometimes turn into an inspiration for many Maldivian songs. The bulbul tarang and drums are very popular among the instruments in the Maldives. The traditional dance known as ‘Bodu Beru’ of Maldives is performed by large groups of 15 to 20 people, drawing inspiration from the Northern Indian classical dance form of Kathak. For a romantic getaway, first, check out which resorts organize the cultural performances as part of your Maldives honeymoon packages before booking your stay at the Maldives.

Maldivian Festivals

The Maldives is a Muslim country; most festivals celebrated here are Islamic. Eid is one of the significant festivals of Maldives and gets celebrated with pomp and enthusiasm throughout the country. Similarly, the birthday of Prophet Mohammed is also considered a big Islamic festival where mosques get packed with devotees. Other than religious festivals, Maldivians enjoy patriotic events like National Day and Republic Day. You will find out what the Maldives is known for by watching and participating in colourful parades and marches displaying the culture of the island country.

The island nation of Maldives’ culture is a confluence of different ethnic groups that have settled on the island, influencing its lifestyle to make it varied and rich. What better way to experience the beautiful cultures and traditions of Maldives than to visit it personally? Call GT Holidays for a Maldives tour package from Chennai and get a great deal. Follow our Instagram profile to know about the latest offers and discounts.