Expecting a Traditional Experience in Maldives? Boduberu, Heart of Local Music

Monday 15th of June 2020

Expecting a Traditional Experience in Maldives? Boduberu, Heart of Local Music

White sandy beaches. Crystal clear waters. Greenery everywhere you look. And with the wind in your hair, you hear these special drums in a catchy rhythm. One of the traditional experiences you do not want to miss in the Maldives is a traditional welcome to the resort with Boduberu, the most extensively known form of music in Maldives’ culture.

Bodu Beru (big drums) are made out of wood and the heads were originally made of rays and Manta rays skins, but they can now be seen in goat skins. The skin of the drums are tightened to produce a high beat. According to historians, Boduberu became a part of Maldivian culture in the eleventh century through African regions.

Starting with slow beats that slowly speeds up, Boduberu is an invitation to dance and it is unlikely that you wouldn’t want to move to these beats. As the song reaches a climax, the dancers from the group (usually 15 to 20 people) makes wild, frantic movements. Although this traditional music had no boundaries of who could perform, it was mostly done by men in a sarong and white shirt.

After you enter the island nation, you may hear this energetic music in various festivals and celebrations. The tradition, which has survived from generation to generation, is also practiced as a way to keep boredom at bay whole some people have made their careers based on this art. There are many wonderful young talents in the Maldives, who will surprise you with their singing as well as drumming and dancing skills.

Almost all resorts in the country provides guests the opportunity to experience this wonderful tradition. While some welcome you into the private island with it, others have designed programs to teach you this music and take it with you as a memory of your trip. You can even have a wedding with Boduberu!