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The Maldives
has been a melting pot of different cultures as people from
different parts of the world came here and settled down. Origin
of the Maldivians is lost in antiquity, but history reveals
that the islands have been populated for over 3,000 years
ago. Early settlers were travelers on the Silk Route and from
the Indus Valley Civilization. Inherently warm, friendly and
hospitable by nature, it is easy to feel comfortable and relaxed
with a Maldivian.
Some of
the local music and dance for instance resemble African influences,
with hand beating of drums and songs in a language that is
not known to any but certainly represents that of East African
countries.
As one
would expect there is a great South Asian influence in some
of the music and dancing and especially in the traditional
food of the Maldivians. However many of the South Asian customs
especially with regard to women - for instance 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 men spend the whole day out at sea fishing. Many
of the traditions are strongly related to the seas and the
fact that life is dependent on the seas around. Dress is generally
casual. T-shirts and cotton clothing are most suitable. In
Male’, the capital island and other inhabited islands
it is recommended that women wear modest clothing without
baring too much.
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