The Maldives celebrates its National Day, or “Qaumee Dhuvas” in the local Dhivehi language, on the first day of Rabi’ al-Awwal according to the Islamic lunar calendar. This means the date shifts each year. In 2021, for an example, it fell on October 7.
The Maldives, officially known as the Republic of Maldives, is an archipelagic nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. According to World Population Review, the current population of Maldives is 517,680 based on projections of the latest United Nations data.
This special day marks a turning point in Maldivian history. Back in 1573, Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam and his band of rebels finally kicked out the Portuguese, who’d been lording it over the islands for 15 long years. They’d taken over in 1558 after offing the local sultan.
Thakurufaanu didn’t just liberate his people; he went on to become Sultan himself, ruling for 12 years until he passed away in 1585. Folks remember him fondly as a fair leader who looked out for the little guy.
When National Day rolls around, the whole country gets into the spirit. You’ll see military parades, flags flying high, and all sorts of cultural shows. The capital, Malé, goes all out with the main events. It’s a chance for the Maldives to flex its military muscle a bit and show off its rich heritage.
Speaking of heritage, the Maldives has been around for over 2,500 years, soaking up influences from all over. Did you know it used to be Buddhist before converting to Islam in the 12th century? You can still stumble across old Buddhist ruins on some islands.
National Day is when Maldivians can hit pause on all that stuff for a moment. It’s a time to look back at where they’ve come from, celebrate who they are, and think about where they’re headed.
So next time you’re daydreaming about those picture-perfect Maldivian beaches, remember there’s a whole lot of history and culture behind that postcard view. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to visit during National Day and see the festivities for yourself!
