Afeef's Tearful Joy: His Children's Surprise Shines on Poets' Day

Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo's Abdulla Afeef has instilled in his children a great love for patriotism and language, reflecting the invaluable influence of this esteemed Maldivian poet. On Poets' Day, this nurturing became evident as Afeef's family paid a touching tribute to their father.

The Dhivehi Bahuge Academy dedicated this year's Poets' Day to Afeef, recognizing his significant contributions to the realm of poetry. In a vibrant ceremony held in Thinadhoo, attendees celebrated Afeef's impactful legacy, creating a heartening experience for the honored poet.

During the gathering, Afeef's children and relatives presented a special performance, offering a delightful surprise for their father.

Azeeza Afeef, Afeef's daughter and a lecturer at the national university, expressed that the presentation was a spontaneous gift from all the students, adding an extra layer of joy to the occasion.

Afeef, a father of six, is also a grandfather to 16 children.

Azeeza shared that the performance was conceived through discussions among Afeef's children after learning about the Dhivehi Bahuge Academy's decision to dedicate this year's Poets' Day to their father.

"We were raised in the local language, forming a family deeply connected to our linguistic heritage. In our home, classes were conducted where both Afeef's children and grandchildren imbibed and practiced this linguistic legacy," she explained.

Anticipating her father's need for something special during such an occasion, Azeeza took the initiative, engaging in conversations with all the students. Together, they decided to present a song in his honor.

Afeef's children and grandchildren showcased their heartfelt performance at an event in Thinadhoo.

"Some students are currently pursuing higher studies abroad, yet they actively participated in the event remotely. The children, even from afar, were well-prepared, donning traditional attire," Azeeza added.

The family presented a heartfelt song dedicated to Afeef, titled 'Alidhodin Fazaa Vidhaali,' composed for one of Afeef's renowned poems, 'Roohuvaani Thinadhoogaayey.' As the students melodiously sang the song, Afeef couldn't hold back his tears.

"It was a bit challenging because we, your kids, aren't singers. However, we discovered some incredibly talented kids among us who excel at singing. Witnessing their talent was truly remarkable," Azeeza shared.

The song, written by Afeef's son Muneeza Afeef, was composed during a bus journey from Malé to Hulhumalé, taking only 10 minutes.

"The musical arrangement was done by Ahmed Imtiaz (Inti), a cousin's son and a talented musician associated with Afeef," Azeeza added. "You weren't even aware that all the children were diligently preparing for this."

"Did you witness the moment on TV? The expression on my father's face when we took the stage for the song performance was priceless. He was genuinely surprised and delighted that we presented such a heartfelt tribute," Azeeza shared.

Azeeza expressed immense pride on behalf of all the children for the government's effort in organizing a vibrant event to honor Afeef's remarkable contributions. She acknowledged the swift and efficient coordination by the president and vice-president of the Dhivehi Bahuge Academy, who, in a short timeframe, compiled a substantial book featuring her father's poems.

Special thanks were extended to Minister for Language and History Adam Naseer Ibrahim for prioritizing the event.

The poetry compilation was officially unveiled during a ceremony in Thinadhoo.

"We're overwhelmed by the support and efforts from the community, making us emotional with joy and gratitude. It's a celebration we cherish with immense thankfulness," Azeeza expressed.