An Islamic festival that’s celebrated the day after the Hajj pilgrimage, the Eid al-Adha is celebrated around the world by all Muslims – and it’s a public holiday that covers a few days. Not to be confused with Eid al-Fitr, the significance of this festival is associated with the holy pilgrimage to the city of Mecca, among the five pillars of Islam.

Eid in the Maldives | img by Easa Shamih via flickr

Maldivian Celebrations
One could argue that the true and honest Maldivian celebrations could only be found on the local islands, it is also true that many resorts also honour the festivities by bringing the local traditions to their guests, allowing them to take memories of such experiences home. To this end, there are many games as well as traditional feasts and activities that make up the programme. Otherwise, the day begins with an early prayer, a congregational event that draws in many worshippers, before beginning the festivities.

Whale Fishing
Also known as “bodumas beynun”, the namesake of whale fishing is a large effigy made of coconut leaves and is the centre of a performance where villagers struggle to catch the fish that is surrounded by spirits, with the help of a holy man. It’s one of the most anticipated events of the local Eid celebrations!

Big Drums
Locally referred to as “boduberu”, the playing of the drums is accompanied by dancing and other cultural performances as the music fills the streets with joy and happiness. The dance itself consists of men and women performing music and dance routines that vary in tempo and mood, the dancers swaying to the beat in rhythm, and is the most popular form of celebration.

Feasting
In keeping with tradition, Maldivian households will prepare a great feast of food, inviting friends and family for meals. At Maldives Private Villa, the very same traditional food is also served, usually accompanied by a “malaafaiy”, an ornate wooden dish of large size, filled to the brim with bowls of seafood, curries, and rice.

Eid Games
Along with the feasts, come traditional Eid games. Here, the age-old tug-of-war games are a popular feature amongst many communities. In addition to this, there is the local game of Bashi – a ball game between teams of 7 to 11 players, where the hitter hits the ball over their head and the opponents must catch him out, while delicious tea is served between the games.