Composed of more than a thousand coral islands scattered across the vast Indian Ocean, the Maldives Archipelago is one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations. Out of the 26 atolls, over 170 islands host operational resorts, while the local population resides on fewer than 200 islands. With a population exceeding 500,000, the Maldives operates on GMT +5, and its currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). The US Dollar is widely accepted, with an official conversion rate of 15.42.

Renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and exceptional hospitality, the Maldives also boasts a vibrant cultural mosaic influenced by Arabian, African, European, and Asian elements, blended seamlessly with its maritime and island lifestyle. The Maldives is believed to have been first settled by people from Southern India and Sri Lanka around 1500 BC. Historically rich in spices, coconuts, fish, and pearls, the archipelago also hosted abundant cowry shells, used as currency from Africa to China until the 16th century. This attracted traders from various regions, who left a lasting impact on Maldivian society and culture.

Music and art are deeply ingrained in Maldivian daily life, reflecting a rich tradition of artistic expression. The Maldives is home to highly skilled artists excelling in stone carving, boat building, traditional attire details, and jewelry making. Before embracing Islam, the Maldives was a Buddhist nation renowned for its art of stone carving. Intricately carved statues and buildings from this period still stand, and Arabic artistic influences emerged post-Islam, evident in ancient mosques adorned with elaborate designs and calligraphy.

Liyelaa jehun, one of the Maldives’ most distinguished handicrafts, is believed to have been inherited through ancient trade with China. Initially, it enhanced the durability of wooden products in the humid island environment. Today, liyelaa jehun is primarily practiced for decorative purposes.

The lacquer used in liyelaa jehun is sourced from neighboring countries, with its preparation being the first crucial step. The lacquer is heated and mixed with pigments to create vibrant colors, including a local pigment called uguli. For yellow lacquer, a traditional medicinal ingredient known as risseyo is added. Once the pigments are blended through a process of flipping and beating, the lacquer is flattened, cooled, and cut into strips, ready for application.

Craftsmen typically use durable woods like Alexander Laurel (funa)  for the base. The sculpting process begins by attaching the wood to a spinning tool, traditionally powered by a pull rope. Precision tools of various shapes ensure a smooth, refined finish. Once shaped, the laa jehun process begins with applying yellow lacquer, followed by successive layers of colors according to the artisan's design. After polishing and smoothing each layer, a final black lacquer coat is applied as the canvas for intricate designs. The top black layer is then carefully scratched off, revealing the colored layers beneath. These freehand designs, crafted without stencils, give each lacquered object a unique identity, showcasing the artisan's skill and artistic vision. The range of lacquered products is vast, from small jewelry containers to larger ornamental pieces. Traditional colors—red, black, and yellow—remain favored for their timeless elegance. Each liyelaa jehun creation is a testament to the skill and creativity of Maldivian artisans.

While liyelaa jehun reflects the Maldivian artistry, other traditional crafts such as fangi viyun (thatch-weaving) provide practical and cultural value. This sustainable method of creating roofing materials from coconut palm fronds (fangi) has been employed in constructing homes and huts for centuries. The process involves cleaning and splitting the fronds, then weaving them into durable, weatherproof panels using a criss-cross technique. Fangi viyun is popular in building resorts and eco-friendly structures, offering a natural connection to the Maldivian traditions. 

Similarly, thundu kunaa mat weaving showcases the resourcefulness of Maldivian artisans, transforming screw pine leaves (Pandanus odorifer) into detailed works of art. The leaves are harvested, boiled, dried, split into strips, and dyed with natural pigments. The elaborate hand-weaving process creates geometric patterns in natural hues. Once used for sitting, praying, or covering floors, thundu kunaa mats are now prized as decorative items and souvenirs, reflecting the weaver’s skill and attention to detail.

Craftsmanship preserves heritage in many forms, as do music and dance, which are essential expressions of the Maldivian spirit. Bodu Beru, one of the most iconic traditions, is believed to have been introduced by African sailors and traders around the 11th or 12th century. Its African roots are evident in the rhythmic drumming, call-and-response singing, and communal spirit. Over time, Bodu Beru has evolved into a symbol of Maldivian identity, particularly spreading from the southern atolls like Seenu and Huvadhoo.

Performed by groups of men, Bodu Beru features drummers, singers, and dancers. The performance begins with a slow, steady beat on the drums (beru), accompanied by chanting and singing. As the performance intensifies, so does the rhythm, with the dancers moving more vigorously in sync with the escalating tempo. This gradual build-up creates an electrifying atmosphere, often reaching a euphoric climax.

Whether experienced in a local village or during a resort performance, Bodu Beru continues to captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into the heart of Maldivian culture. While modern adaptations have blended traditional beats with contemporary influences, Bodu Beru retains its roots in the African and South Asian rhythms that first inspired it. Its vibrant drumming, captivating dance, and collective participation continue to be the heartbeat of Maldivian music and dance.

With its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Maldives offers more than a luxurious escape; it reveals centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and artistic expression. From the intricate patterns of liyelaa jehun and thundu kunaa mats to the rhythmic energy of Bodu Beru, each tradition is a piece of a greater whole. The Maldives is a cultural mosaic where diverse histories, vibrant artistry, and enduring customs meet, creating a harmonious blend that invites visitors to explore the soul of the islands.