The National Day of the Maldives is one of the many festivities in the Maldives that could be enjoyed by tourists.
A Brief History of the National Day
The Maldives’ National Day is celebrated during the 1st day of Rabee ul Awwal, the 3rd month of the Muslim calendar. The National Day of the Maldives celebrates the victory of Mohammed Thakurufaanu over the Portuguese colonizers during the year 1573. During the year 1558, the Portuguese had attacked the Maldives and killed the then Sultan of the island, ending up in the colonization of the country. It was when Mohammed Thakurufaanu, along with his companions, had arrived in the Maldives and succeeded in ending the Portuguese colonial rule, thus, liberating the Maldives. The National Day of Maldives is usually highlighted by various parades and root marches all over the island. Parties are also held during the night, when locals and tourists share the enjoyment of food and cocktails, which are elements of a good time. During the National Day, the tourists could experience a part of Maldivian history and its rich culture. The National Day is celebrated more extravagantly in the capital city, Male, where the local people and tourists could easily gather and witness the parades and root marches. Male is also the place to find most of the tourist attractions in the Maldives.
- Children practicing their dance for the parade in Male
