The island nation of Maldives is
known for its rich cultural heritage
and traditions, which has a strong
Indian, Sri Lankan, Arab, East African
and South East Asian influence.
The Maldives Music and dance are
the biggest examples of the country's
rich, colorful and vibrant culture.
Bodu Beru is the most popular form
of music and dance, which was introduced
in the 19th century. Almost all
the islands of the country have
their own Bodu Beru troupe who performs
during special occasions and festivals.
In this dance form, the dancers
move to the rhythm of the drum beat.
Three to four drums and other percussion
instruments are used in Bodu Beru.
There is a lead singer who sings
the main lyrics and is assisted
by a choir of 10 to 15 people. The
dance involves leaps and jerks accompanied
by claps. Both the young and the
old take part in this music and
dance form and enjoy themselves.
Thaara is a Maldivian music, performed
by 22 people sitting in two rows
opposite each other. Only the men
participate in this and it is more
of a religious nature. Thaara was
introduced by the Arabs in the seventeenth
century and is nowadays performed
only during national events.
Dhandijehun is a form of dance.
It is a group dance performed by
men only. The dancers hold a stick
called 'Dhandi' and dance to the
rhythm of the music. In this dance,
one dancer has to clap his stick
with that of the other. Special
dresses are worn in this form of
dance.
Bandiyaa Jehun is another extremely
popular form of Maldivian dance.
It is performed by the women folk
only. In this dance, the women carry
metal water pots and dance to the
tune and the rhythm of the music.
Both traditional and western or
modern music is used in this dance
performance.
Other examples of Maldives music
and dance include Gaa Odi Lava,
Bolimalaafath neshun, Maafathi neshun,
Fathigandu Jehun and Kulhudhuffushi.
