Amilla Maldives to Host Maldives Cultural Week This July

Sunday 9th of July 2023

Amilla Maldives is preparing to kickstart the third annual Maldives Cultural Week, immersing guests in an innovative itinerary of activities and events that showcase the vibrant Maldivian culture and heritage of this tourist destination. As a locally owned and operated resort, Amilla Maldives is the only property to offer this remarkable festival, which will portray the authentic culture and traditions of the country that have been passed down from generations.

This year’s Maldives Cultural Week will also coincide with the Maldives Independence Day, which falls on 26 July 2023. During the event, guests will receive numerous opportunities to discover the cultural experiences available in the Maldives through workshops, games, music, dance, art & crafts as well as culinary offerings. The engaging and thrilling fiesta will also welcome visiting local artists and businesses who will introduce guests to unseen sides of the destination through their works.

Some of the highlights featured in the Maldives Cultural Week include:

Bodu Beru

Bodu Beru forms the heart and soul of Maldivian music and is an integral part of any cultural exploration of the Maldives. Known for its captivating beats, Bodu Beru is an amalgamation of drums, vocals, and dance which can uplift any celebration with its catchy vibes and upbeat atmosphere. During the event, the Bodu Beru troupe of Amilla Maldives will perform for guests during cocktails and will also offer Bodu Beru drum lessons throughout the week.

Maldivian Pop-Up Store

Amilla Maldives is collaborating with multiple Maldivian brands for the festival, bringing a collection of unique merchandise from home-grown businesses to the platform. Guests can browse and purchase locally handmade and Maldives-inspired jewellery, dresses, beachwear, games, and books from renowned local designers such as Endheri Artisan, Lanala, Kulhema Maldives and Mas Kula at Bazaar. 

Visit a Local Island

Kendhoo is an inhabited island in the Baa Atoll steeped in historical sites. It is believed that the first mosque in the Maldives was built here after the nation embraced Islam centuries ago. A visit to Kendhoo will take guests back in time, fostering a deeper connection with the rich history and heritage of the Maldives. Following this, the journey will continue to Kudarikilu, where guests can tour the national heritage museum and sample traditional snacks prepared by the local community.

Bashi

Bashi is a Maldivian sport played solely by women in the Maldives. Bashi is a game exclusive to the Maldives and guests can try their hand in this sport during the Culture Week. Originally played with a wooden bat and with balls woven from coconut palms, the sport was later transformed by the country’s first President as part of his aim to advance women’s interests in the country. After this modification, the wooden bats were replaced with tennis rackets and tennis balls are used for the sport.

Apart from these inclusions, a multitude of other intriguing experiences will be staged at Amilla Maldives during Maldives Culture Week. Culture enthusiasts can come across the skillful artisanship of Maldivians via a lacquer art class, learn the native lingo through a Dhivehi language lesson and even master the strategic game of ‘Ohvalhu Gondi’. Moreover, they can understand the significance of the Maldives flag, discover cultural dances and tantalize the tastebuds with Maldivian-themed buffets.

All in all, the Maldives Culture Week proves to be a promising experience, diving deep into the cultural tapestry of this archipelago, which has been carefully preserved for many generations. Therefore, get ready to don a colourful Libaas, indulge in flavourful Maldivian cuisine and dance to the grooves of Bodu Beru this July.