Thaara Jehun

Thaara is a popular form of folk music performed in Maldives. The credit for its introduction in the Maldives goes to the Gulf Arabs, who visited this beautiful island in the mid 17th century.

Thaara is the Dhivehi word for tambourine. It is performed by about 22 people seated in  two parallel rows facing each other. It is a type of music which has a semi religious touch, and is distinct to men only. In Thaara, there is both singing and dancing. The early songs which accompanied Thaara were in Arabic. The songs start with a very slow tempo and gradually increases to reach a crescendo.

The performers wear white sarongs and white shirts with a green scarf tied around their necks.

Thaara was introduced to The Maldives by the Gulf Arabs who came here in the mid 17th century. A type of music similar to Thaara is still practised in the Gulf and in south Arabia.

Thaara was played in the fulfilment of vows, and special times was accompanied by a pseudo act called "Wajid" which is now banned by the government, but the singing and dancing still continue as an entertainment.

Langiri Jehun

Langiri is a folk performance of Maldives, the origin of which can be traced back in the early 20th century during the rule of Sultan Shamsuddin III. It is basically the Thaara performance that was modified by people to suit their taste that gave rise to the Langiri performance of today.

Kadhaa Maali

Kadhaa Maali is a form of traditional music and dance that can be found only in Kulhudhuffushi in the south Thiladhunmathi atoll. From where did this Kadhaa Maali folk dance come from is unknown.

Gaa Odi Lava

Gaa Odi Lava is a popular folk music and dance performance that is carried out by people as a means to express their satisfaction on having completed a hard manual work.

Fathigandu Jehun

Fathigandu Jehun is a popular form of folk music, in which only men can participate. It is basically a stage music show that usually takes place in the evening time.

Dhandi Jehun

Dhandi Jehun. Eid

Dhandi Jehun is a popular dance form of the beautiful islands of Maldives. The style in which the Maldives Dhandi Jehun folk dance is performed varies from island to island. A group of 30 men participate in this dance.

Bolimalaafath Neshun

Bolimaafathi Neshun is a famous folk dance of Maldives. This dance performance is carried out by women. It depicts the old tradition, when women used to offer presents to the Sultan on special festive occasions like the Eid festival.