Historically, the Maldives was an important crossroad in the Indian Ocean, hence Maldivian culture is a melting pot of various influences gathered from visitors who set foot there over the centuries. Influences of India, Sri Lanka, Arabia, Persia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Africa are evident in the unique culture of the Maldives. Maldivians have assimilated these influences over the years and created their own cultural identity like no other.
A proud history and rich culture evolved from the first settlers in the Maldives, who were seafarers from various parts of the world, traversing the oceans in ancient times. Since people from different parts of the world settled in the Maldives over the centuries, you can still spot some of the traditions they brought with them in Maldivian culture. Some of the traditional drumming and dancing (known as ‘boduberu’) shows African influences, with rhythmic beating of drums and some songs in a language resembling that of East African countries.
There is a strong South Asian influence in the music, dancing, and traditional food of the Maldives. This includes spicy curries made with coconut milk and fish as the main staples, alongside ‘roshi’ (a thin flatbread) as a popular accompaniment. For those who don’t enjoy curries, there are also options of world cuisine like pasta, burgers, noodles, and other familiar dishes. The resorts offer a wide variety of international cuisine, often rivaling the top restaurants in the world. Fresh ingredients are flown in daily or grown on the islands.
However, some of the South Asian customs especially with regard to women such as the Sub Continent’s tradition of secluding women from public view are not tenets of life here. In fact, women play a major role in society – not surprising considering the fact many Maldivian men spend the whole day out at sea fishing. Many of the country’s traditions are strongly related to the sea and the fact that life is dependent on the sea around us.