subject: Celebrate The Holy Festival Of Eid In Breathtaking Maldives [print this page] When one thinks of the Maldives, it inevitably conjures up images of sun kissed beaches, paradise islands and captivating lagoons, a Mecca for beachgoers and honeymooners worldwide. But there is a side to this island nation that is seldom explored by its ever increasing number of visitors and that is its equally vibrant cultural identity. An Islamic county since 1153, the Maldivian calendar also encompasses a number of red letter days of cultural and religious significance. But no other festival garners the nationwide attention as the Eid Festival. Held annually in the month of Shawaal according to the Islamic calendar, the Eid Festival marks the end of the Ramadan fasting season. Celebrated with great piety and pageantry during the period when the country was under a monarchy, the event encompassed Nabuskhan drunbeats, street parades, music and a procession lead by the Sultan himself. It was typical to see Muslims dressed in their finery, actively engaging in unique games in a festive spirit.
Today, the Eid Festival is an equally significant event for a majority of the countrys population who engage in the three day festival with great enthusiasm. Also known as Kuda Eid or Fithru Eid, the festival celebrates the end of the Ramadan fasting season in a public holiday that culminates in a great feast.
The day commences with a visit to the mosque in the wee hours of the morning where blessings and special prayers are offered. A unique feast full of delectable treats are prepared in each household as relatives and loved ones are invited to the meal which will take place once the full moon is visible. An Islamic religious leader or a mullah announces the auspicious hour to the nation and the population then proceeds to enjoy a hearty meal in the company of their extended family.
Maldivians are also known to don new clothes for the festival where greeting cards and warm regards are also exchanged with the phrase Eid Mubarak'. Out in the rural regions of the country, village folk take part in special dances such as the Bodu Beru in a community celebration that takes on a life of its own. It is also typical to see Muslims participate in various acts of charity towards the poor and disenfranchised during the festival as an act of goodwill and faith for all.
Although tourists have many Maldives hotels and resorts to chose from, no accommodation provider quite surpasses John Keells Hotels Group when it comes to top-notch island resorts. As a hotel chain at the pinnacle of the Maldives travel and tourism industry, one will be hard pressed to find a rest that rivals this renowned establishment in the business of hospitality.
by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe
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