When considering Lakshadweep and the Maldives, we imagine pristine beaches and clear waters. However, these islands also have rich cultural histories and unique traditions. Exploring their culture offers a chance to connect with the locals and make your vacation unforgettable.
In this blog, we’ll explore the unique traditions of both Lakshadweep and the Maldives.
Introduction to Lakshadweep and Maldives Cultures
Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep, a group of 36 islands off the southwestern coast of India, is a region steeped in tradition. Although it is part of India, Lakshadweep’s culture has its flavour, heavily influenced by Islam, given the majority of its inhabitants are Muslims. The islanders have retained a simple, community-centred lifestyle closely tied to the sea and nature.
Tourists who opt for Lakshadweep tour packages focus on the island’s pristine beaches and marine activities. However, learning about their culture, traditional crafts, and festivals can add another layer to the experience.
Maldives
Just southwest of Lakshadweep lies the Maldives, a tropical paradise known for its luxurious overwater resorts. The Maldives has a long history as a trade hub, which has made its culture a melting pot of South Asian, African, and Arabic influences. Islam is the dominant religion here, too, but the traditions and lifestyle of Maldivians are shaped by their long history of seafaring and commerce.
While many choose Maldives tour packages to enjoy the luxury of private villas and water sports, diving into the local culture can provide a unique perspective on how island life has evolved in this remote nation.
Language and Communication
Lakshadweep
The people of Lakshadweep primarily speak Malayalam, a language widely spoken in the Indian state of Kerala. However, Minicoy islanders, one of the southernmost islands, speak Mahl, a dialect of Dhivehi, the language of the Maldives. This connection between Minicoy and the Maldives underscores the cultural overlap between the two regions. While Malayalam is used for official purposes, you often hear a mix of local dialects.
Maldives
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, which has its roots in Sanskrit but also includes elements from Arabic, Urdu, and even French due to the country’s trade history and interaction with various cultures. Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas, locals always appreciate learning a few basic Dhivehi phrases, which can enhance your experience when exploring the cultural side of the islands.
Religion and Festivals
Lakshadweep
Islam is central to the way of life in Lakshadweep. The people here follow Sunni Islam, and religious festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Milad-un-Nabi are celebrated enthusiastically.
The influence of Islam can be seen in their dress, food, and even in the traditional songs and dances performed during celebrations. These festivals often bring the entire community together, and as a visitor, you may experience local hospitality at its best during such times.
Maldives
Islam is also the state religion in the Maldives, and the people are deeply religious. Ramadan is an essential time in the Maldives, and if you happen to visit during this holy month, you will notice that locals fast from sunrise to sunset. Maldivians celebrate Eid with enthusiasm, similar to Lakshadweep.
Still, their celebrations often include special dishes, traditional songs, and the famous Bodu Beru performances of drumming and dancing that date back hundreds of years. Experiencing these cultural festivals is a great way to get a deeper insight into Maldivian life beyond the luxurious resorts.
Traditional Dance and Music
Lakshadweep
Music and dance are integral to Lakshadweep’s culture, particularly during festivals and weddings. One of the most popular forms of traditional music is Opana, a folk song style typically sung in Malayalam.
Kolkali and Parichakali are traditional folk dances performed by men, often with rhythmic clapping and stick-fighting moves. These performances offer a glimpse into the islands’ agrarian past, though now they are performed more during cultural festivals than in daily life.
Maldives
Bodu Beru is the most popular traditional dance and music form in the Maldives. Originating from East Africa, this performance typically involves heavy drumming and group dancing. The beats start slow and gradually become faster, and the dancers’ movements become more energetic.
Thaara, another traditional performance, involves synchronised drumming and singing, usually performed during national celebrations or festive events. Watching a Bodu Beru performance is often included in Maldives tour packages as part of the cultural experiences offered at local guesthouses or island resorts.
Crafts and Handicrafts
Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep’s craft traditions are closely tied to the natural environment. Coir (coconut fibre) products are one of the most prominent crafts here, and you’ll often find coir mats, ropes, and even household items made from this material.
The art of making coir products has been passed down through generations and is a vital part of the local economy. Visiting local workshops or buying coir handicrafts is a great way to support the local community and bring home a piece of the islands’ culture.
Maldives
The Maldives is known for its intricate lacquer work, a traditional craft that involves painting wooden objects with vibrant colours and polishing them until they shine. Maldivians also excel at creating woven mats, known as Thundu Kunaa, made from locally grown reeds. These mats are often used in homes and mosques and make for beautiful souvenirs. Like Lakshadweep, the Maldives’ craft industry is essential in preserving the islands’ heritage.
Food and Cuisine
Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep’s cuisine is simple yet flavorful, emphasising seafood and coconut-based dishes. Traditional meals include tuna curry, fried fish, and rice served with coconut chutney. The islanders also enjoy a variety of tropical fruits, especially bananas and coconuts, which are abundant on the islands. Visitors who opt for Lakshadweep tour packages can often experience local feasts or home-cooked meals, where they can savour the authentic flavours of island life.
Maldives
Maldivian cuisine is also heavily centred around fish, particularly tuna and coconut. Traditional dishes include Garudhiya (a fish soup), Mas Huni (a tuna and coconut mix typically eaten for breakfast), and Fihunu Mas (grilled fish with chilli paste).
Using spices, such as curry leaves and cardamom, adds depth to Maldivian dishes. Many Maldives tour packages include meals at local restaurants or resorts where you can taste these traditional dishes while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Conclusion
Lakshadweep and the Maldives may be neighbours in the Indian Ocean, but their cultures offer unique and fascinating experiences for travellers. From the rhythmic beats of Maldivian Bodu Beru to the soulful songs of Lakshadweep’s Opana, these islands offer a deep connection to traditions rooted in the sea. Whether you’re exploring traditional crafts, enjoying a local meal, or witnessing a vibrant festival, there’s no doubt that both Lakshadweep tour packages and Maldives tour packages provide more than just a beach holiday; they offer an immersive cultural journey that stays with you long after your trip ends.
