The
island nation of Maldives is known
for its rich cultural heritage and
traditions, which has a strong Indian,
Sri Lanka, Arab, East Africa and South-East
Asian influence. The Maldives Music
and dancing 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 presented
in the 19th century. Almost all
the islands of the country have
their own troupe of Bodu Beru plays
during special occasions and festivals.
In this form of dance, the dancers
move to the rhythm of the drum.
Three to four drums and other percussion
instruments are used in Bodu Beru.
There is a singer who sings the
lyrics and is assisted by a choir
of 10 to 15 people. It’s a
dance of jumps and jolts accompanied
by claps. Young and old take part
in this music and dance form for
fun.
Thaara of Maldives is music, performed
by 22 people sitting in two rows
facing each other. Only men are
involved in this regard and are
more religious in nature. Thaara
was introduced by the Arabs in the
seventeenth century and is currently
done 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 music. In this dance,
a dancer must hit his stick with
that of others. Special dresses
are worn in this form of dance.
Bandiyaa Jehun is another extremely
popular form of dance of Maldives.
It is done by women folk. In this
dance, women carry water pots, metal
and dance to the music and rhythm
of the music. Both traditional and
western or modern music is used
in this dance.
Other examples of Maldives music
and dance are Gaa Odi Lava, Bolimalaafath
neshun, Maafathi neshun, Fathigandu
Jehun and Kulhudhuffushi.
