Colorful conclusion to Eid in Vilimale', with fireworks

The festivities of Eid Al-Adha came to a conclusion in a vibrant atmosphere in Vilimale' on Friday evening, July 15.

Friday eve of Eid celebratory activities concluded with fireworks and a music concert after a week full of special festivities, according to Vilimale' MP Mr. Ahmed Usham.

The celebratory activities wrapped up on Friday eve with the fireworks kicking at 09:30 pm, which was attended by residents of the village island along with several other non-Vilimale visitors.

During the Eid holidays of 2022, several celebratory activities were hosted in Vilimale which included traditional folklore parades and dances.

Among the activities colorfully hosted in Vilimale included "Koadi Kendun", "Bodu Beru" and "Maali Neshun."

"Koadi Kendun" is one of the oldest artistic performances originating from the Maldivian culture and tradition.

The "Koadi" is an intricately crafted 'statue' designed using palm fronds, bark and wood. This delicate responsibility is carried out by the skilled men and women, who commence the dire task at the break of dawn.

After the "Koadi" is built to its full galore, it is brought out into the streets and a dance is performed around it with men clad in 'sarongs' and garbs made from several different materials including palm fronds.

By the eve of the day, the men tie the "Koadi" at the top of a tall coconut palm, after which a cat-and-mouse like fun and frolic is followed in which the men attempt to sneak past the women protecting the "Koadi" and bring the statue down.

The men who are successful in bringing the "Koadi" down are 'rewarded' for their valiance and given a bath in the sea after which he is sat before a feast "fit for a king."

Perhaps the most famous of the celebratory affairs is the "Bodu Beru" which is the authentic Maldivian drum-beat dance.

Participants of Bodu Beru either remain stationary at one specific venue or parade through the island while beating the drums to beautiful local rhythms while the singers and dancers complement them.

The popularity of Bodu Beru is such that, that any festivity without the presence of it is considered incomplete.

"Maali Neshun" is another such iconic and traditional activity where the participants dress up as various 'monsters' and creatures originating from the Maldivian folklore. These 'monsters' gallivant and walk through the island while interacting with gleeful onlookers.