The most popular form of folk music in the Maldives is
Bodu Beru which literally means Big Drum.
It is one of the oldest Dhivehi cultural traits
surviving and a common and popular tourist attraction.
The performing of this music is referred as “vibrating
the island”
It is said that Bodu Beru was first introduced to Maldives
around 11th Century AD with the arrival of African brought by the
Arab Seafarers on their route to Asia.
The tradition has survived for centuries in Maldives.
This cultural performance is performed by around 20
people, three drummers and a lead singer included. A small bell, set of drums
(Bodu Beru) and onugandu (a piece of Bamboo) is used to perform this music. The
tempo starts slow and then builds up to a crescendo and dancers sway to the
beat and rhythm as it gets higher. The beat of drum is hammered out with bare
hands.
The barrel of the drum is made of coconut wood which
is designed in a traditional concept and the head of the drums are made from
goatskin and manta ray skins.
Although bodu beru performances were mostly given on
occasion such as Eid and other Maldivian festive, today it is used in various
occasions such as weddings, parties etc.
Wouldn’t you enjoy hearing this traditional Maldivian
music under the moonlight?
“I think music itself is healing. It’s an
explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No
matter what culture we are from, everyone loves music” –Billy Joel-
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