When did the Republic Day in Maldives start?
About Republic Day in Maldives Holiday
Today marks an important date in the history of the Maldives—Republic Day! On this day in 1965, the Maldives gained their independence from Great Britain, and it has become an annual national holiday ever since.
The Maldives is composed of a thousand coral islands in the Indian Ocean, making it one of the most unique and beautiful island countries in the world. Republic Day is an important symbol of national pride for the Maldivian people, a day that represents freedom, self-government, peace, and hope for a better tomorrow.
On this special day, the city streets are transformed into vibrant celebrations, filled with colorful flags, parades, and fireworks. Locals come out to the single island of Malé for community gatherings, to commemorate the monumental event of independence with music and dance.
It is truly an unforgettable experience to be able to share in the joy and enthusiasm of Republic Day in the Maldives!
History and Origin of ‘Republic Day’ in Maldives
The Maldives is an archipelago made up of hundreds of islands located off the southern tip of India in the Indian Ocean. ‘Republic Day’ also known as ‘Maldives National Day’ is celebrated by citizens living in the island nation. It marks the day in 1968 when the Kingdom of Maldives was restored and the Maldives Constitution came into effect. It is a public holiday celebrated on the 11th of November.
The Maldives were formerly a monarchy, ruled by a sultan. This sultanate was established in the mid-1500s following several centuries of diverse rule by foreign powers. Early influences range from Buddhist Sri Lanka and Hindu India to various Islamic states. The sultanate lasted over three hundred years until it was overthrown by the nationalists on November 11, 1968. This event led to the establishment of the modern-day Maldives as a republic.
The first President of the Maldives after the sultanate was overthrown was Muhammad Fareed Didi (November 1968-November 1978). He was responsible for drafting the nation’s first constitution and establishing the nation as a parliamentary democracy. He laid the foundations of the ‘National Day’ holiday and worked hard to unite the nation through his leadership and vision of a strong independent state.
Significance and Meaning of Republic Day in Maldives
Republic Day is an important day for the citizens of Maldives as it marks the nation’s independence from dictatorship and foreign rule and signifies pride in being a sovereign nation. The day celebrates the journey the Maldives took to become a free and democratic republic and the cherished ideals and freedom the nation continues to promote.
The day also serves as a reminder of the hard-fought battle that Maldives citizens underwent to achieve a political system in which they could be vocal and exercise their rights. The day provides a stark contrast to the monarchy of the past and stands as a symbol of inclusiveness, peace, and progress.
Traditions and Celebrations of Republic Day in Maldives
Republic Day is a nationwide celebration that includes festive activities such as national parades, military marches, and cultural performances. Local governments and civic institutions all across the Maldives organize shows and political gatherings to mark the national holiday. The chief executive of each citizen hosts a central event, followed by several cultural and musical shows organized in the capital city, Male. In addition, state flags and the flag of the Maldivian Republic are hoisted high in public honor.
In the days leading up to Republic Day, people decorate streets and public places with flags, flowers, banners, and other symbols of national pride. Several communities and associations culminate their preparations with public fiestas, activities, and competitions. Typically, the events focus on traditional Maldivian dances, music, and festive meals.
People from all parts of the country visit Male for the occasion and soak up the grand celebration. The display of national pride is also reflected in the annual race of the royal naval ships. The parade of ships with prancing sailors hailing the national anthem completes the visual sight down at the harbour.
Geographical Spread of Republic Day in Maldives
Republic Day is celebrated all across the nation, though with variations of tradition and style according to each region. The Male has become the hub for celebrations during this time and the largest gatherings assemble in Male, with the President presiding over the main event and speeches delivered by prominent figures in the nation.
Atoll based regions have their own unique customs with more traditional ways of celebrating either at a local level or by the whole island at the same time. Usually, a grand gala dinner and massive fireworks display follow the national parade. While some regions are Animist and celebrate their own culture and traditions, some even indulge in kite flying and street performances.
Modern Day Celebrations of Republic Day in Maldives
Due to the increase in popularity of the holiday, contemporary times have also introduced new and exciting activities to be enjoyed on Republic Day. In Male, a street parade and musical performances replace the day-long festivities of the past, and the entire city is decorated with flags and large banners.
Additionally, the President now goes on a ‘tour’ visiting different parts of the island and delivering speeches as he goes. Cultural extravaganzas and special sculptural models are usually showcased in the capital along with traditional music and dances.
Interesting Facts or Trivia on Republic Day in Maldives
• The Buddha statue from the 4th century located in the capital, Male, is said to be the oldest one in South Asia
• The former Sultanate of the Maldives used to have a unique naval tradition of beating drums and singing songs of war to show gratitude for unity and strength. This tradition is still observed on Republic Day.
• Before the official Republic Day celebrations started in the Maldives, November 11 was celebrated as an unofficial holiday named ‘Full Moon Day’.
• The Maldives is said to be the smallest Asian country in terms of size and population.
• Republic Day is also celebrated in the nearby nations of India and Sri Lanka to commemorate the day Maldives first declared itself a republic.
• This day is known as ‘Fathitha’ locally, meaning ‘liberation’ or ‘independence’.
• People who reside abroad still come back home to celebrate Republic Day.
• The official state flag is hoisted on a 141 ft. (43 m) flagpole, making it the longest in South Asia.
Holiday Wishes on Republic Day for Maldives
• Wishing you a joyful Republic Day celebration!
• May the soul of the nation always enjoy peaceful freedom
• Let us rededicate ourselves to uphold the ideals of the Republic
• Let us always remain true to the principles of justice and integrity
• Mabrouk on the occasion of the Republic Day!
Holiday Messages on Republic Day for Maldives
• The promise of freedom always comes with the responsibility of building a just and equitable society. Happy Republic Day!
• Let us celebrate the joyous occasion of Republic Day and thank the Almighty for giving us a strong and independent nation.
• Republic Day rekindles the spirit of patriotism in our hearts and reminds us to have faith in our country.
• Let us remember the Maldivians who fought for freedom and remember their courage and integrity.
• Happy Republic Day! Let us take pride in our unity and diversity as we come together to remember the day of liberation.
Holiday Quotes on Republic Day for Maldives
• “Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
• “Where liberty dwells, there is my country.” – Benjamin Franklin
• “Freedom is the oxygen of the soul.” – Moshe Dayan
• “Democracy means simply the bludgeoning of the people by the people for the people.” – Oscar Wilde
• “Liberty is always dangerous, but it is the safest thing we have.” – Harry Emerson Fosdick
Other Popular Holiday Info on Republic Day for Maldives
Republic Day is celebrated with special fervour in Maldives. This day marks the day when the Maldivian people overthrew the oppressive Sultanate that controlled the land for hundreds of years and declared the nation a country and a republic. This is remembered as a day of pride and celebration of the unity and strength of the nation and the victory of the people and their rights.
In the contemporary times, Republic Day celebration in Maldives is celebrated through numerous cultural events, parades, and fireworks. Various programs are organized at different parts of the nation to commemorate the day of liberation and independence. Events such as kite-flying , street performances, singing and dancing, banquets, and fireworks draw many local and international tourists to the islands to enjoy the spectacle.
The Republic Day Flag hoisting and Motorboat Race in the capital city, Male, are the main events of the celebration where the President and members of the cabinet also take part. The Maldives also celebrates the “National Youth Day” on Republic Day for honouring the role of youth in the fight for independence and in helping build the nation.
Lastly, Republic Day remains a significant day to remember the fallen heroes who have sacrificed for the country’s freedom. A special event is organized at The National Cemetery , along with respects paid at the local war memorials across the nation to honour their memory and courage.
In the end, Republic Day in Maldives is an opportunity for the people of the country to celebrate their identity in an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm. On this day, the beauty of the people uniting as one nation in the face of challenges and for a common cause should not be overlooked.
Republic Day in Maldives Also Called
Liberation Day.
FUN FACT:
In year 1968, Republic Day in Maldives is celebrated on November 11 for the first time.HOLIDAY CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, please click here to contact us!