The Fishing Heritage of the Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is a low-lying archipelago consisting of approximately 1,190 islands grouped into 20 atolls. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and thriving tourism industry, the country has long relied on the ocean for sustenance. Even before tourism emerged in the late 1970s, Maldivians led happy and peaceful lives, honoring great kings and leaders of the world. Their primary livelihood was fishing, a practice deeply embedded in their culture and heritage.

A Deep Connection with the Ocean

For generations, Maldivians have lived off the bounty of the sea, respecting its vast resources and ensuring sustainable fishing practices. This deep reverence for nature has allowed them to preserve the richness of marine life, passing down their skills and traditions from one generation to the next. As a former president of the Maldives once said:

"Fishing is the lifeblood of our nation; it is inborn. From the soil on which we live to the sea around us, it remains an integral part of our existence. Fishing, our country, and its people are one and shall remain inseparable forever."

This statement highlights the significance of fishing in Maldivian culture. Today, the fishing industry remains the second-largest economic sector in the Maldives, employing around 22,000 people.

Traditional Fishing Methods

Historically, Maldivians practiced only a few types of fishing, primarily pelagic (open-ocean) and reef fishing. The most commonly caught species in the open ocean include various types of tuna, rainbow runners, dolphin fish, wahoo, sailfish, and some species of sharks. Reef fishing, on the other hand, focuses on high-value fish such as groupers, jacks, snappers, and green jobfish.

Tuna Fishing: A Time-Honored Tradition

Tuna fishing in the Maldives is traditionally carried out using dhonis—wooden boats originally built from coconut palm. These vessels, once powered by sails, are now motorized. A typical fishing expedition begins around 4 AM when fishermen set out to catch baitfish, as tuna prefer live bait. Shallow areas within the atolls serve as ideal bait fishing grounds. The bait is then kept alive in special wells aboard the dhoni before the fishermen head into the open ocean in search of tuna schools.

Without the aid of modern fish finders or GPS, Maldivian fishermen rely on their deep understanding of nature, following seabirds that gather above schools of tuna. Once a school is found, they use a time-tested technique known as pole-and-line fishing. The process involves:

• Throwing live bait into the water to trigger a feeding frenzy.
• Using 10- to 15-foot-long bamboo poles, fitted with barbless hooks and feathered lures, to catch the tuna.
• Swiftly pulling in fish, sometimes catching one every minute.

With six to seven fishermen working together, the deck of a dhoni can quickly become a flurry of activity, with tuna raining onto the boat. A single trip can yield 2 to 4 tonnes of tuna on a good fishing day. Upon returning home, the catch is either sold locally or delivered to processing vessels for canning and freezing.

Reef Fishing: A Growing Industry

Reef fishing in the Maldives is typically carried out using bokkuraas, smaller boats that accommodate two to three people per trip. Each expedition lasts about four to five hours, using various types of bait, such as:

• Live bait for jackfish
• Fish waste for snapper
• Feathered hooks (without bait) for green jobfish

Traditionally, reef fishing was done for household consumption rather than commercial purposes. However, with increased international demand and the booming tourism industry, reef fishing is now becoming a profitable sector. While this growth presents new opportunities, sustainable practices must be upheld. With proper regulations and effective government monitoring, the Maldives can ensure that its rich fishing grounds remain abundant for future generations.

Fishing is more than just an industry in the Maldives—it is a way of life, a legacy passed down through centuries. By safeguarding its traditions and marine resources, the Maldives can continue to thrive while preserving its deep-rooted connection with the sea.

The Culinary Heritage of the Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is a stunning island nation with a population of approximately 300,000. Its people, known as Maldivians (Dhivehin), speak Dhivehi, a language with roots in ancient Sanskrit and South India. Despite having a total land area of only 300 square kilometers, most of the Maldives is covered by the vast Indian Ocean. Due to the scarcity of cultivable land and natural resources, Maldivians have long relied on the sea for sustenance. Fish and seafood are integral to Maldivian cuisine, shaping their diet and culinary traditions.

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A Unique Culinary Identity

Maldivian cuisine is a flavorful blend of traditional ingredients and foreign influences, reflecting the country's historical role as a crossroads of trade and travel. The cuisine revolves around three main components: tuna, coconut, and rice. In the past, Maldivians primarily consumed fish and coconuts, along with locally available ingredients such as breadfruit, millet, and tubers. Over time, exposure to different cultures introduced new spices and cooking methods, enriching the Maldivian culinary landscape.

Today, Maldivian dishes feature an abundance of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and bold flavors, creating a unique and beloved food tradition. Below are five iconic Maldivian recipes that showcase the nation’s culinary heritage.

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1. Mas Huni (Tuna and Coconut Mix)

A beloved Maldivian breakfast dish, Mas Huni is a simple yet flavorful blend of tuna, coconut, and chili. Resembling a salad, it requires minimal preparation and is traditionally enjoyed with roshi (thin Maldivian bread) and black tea.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 chili pepper (Dorset Naga/Chinese Capsicum/Ghost Chili), finely chopped
• 1 cup diced smoked tuna (or 1 can of tuna chunks)
• 1 cup grated coconut
• Juice of 1 medium lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Mash the onion and chili pepper with lime juice and salt.
2. Add the tuna and mix well.
3. Stir in the grated coconut.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
5. Serve with roshi (Maldivian thin bread).

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2. Kulhimas (Spicy Tuna Curry)

The name Kulhimas comes from the Dhivehi words "kulhi" (spicy) and "mas" (fish). This dish is a staple in Maldivian households and is typically enjoyed for breakfast or dinner with roshi or rice.

Ingredients:

• 500g fresh tuna, cut into small cubes (1 cm x 1 cm)
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed or finely chopped
• 1 chili pepper (Dorset Naga/Chinese Capsicum/Ghost Chili), chopped
• 3 cardamom pods (ends trimmed)
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp fish or chicken curry powder/paste
• ¾ cup thick coconut milk
• ½ cup water
• 2 curry leaves, de-stemmed
• 4 pieces of fragrant pandan leaves (1-inch pieces)
• 3 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, ginger, curry leaves, and pandan leaves until onions turn translucent.
2. Stir in chili powder, curry powder, and salt.
3. Add the tuna and toss to coat with spices.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, water, chili pepper, and cardamom pods.
5. Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the tuna is cooked.
6. Serve hot with roshi or rice.

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3. Garudhiya (Maldivian Fish Soup)

One of the most treasured dishes in Maldivian cuisine, Garudhiya is a hearty fish soup made with fresh tuna. Maldivians enjoy this dish daily, serving it hot with rice, lime, and chili.

Ingredients:

• 250g fresh tuna
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tbsp whole peppercorns
• 1 curry leaf, de-stemmed
• 1 liter water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the tuna into small cubes.
2. Pour water into a pot and add all ingredients.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and skim off any scum.
4. Simmer until the fish is fully cooked.
5. Serve hot with rice, a squeeze of lime, and chopped chili.

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4. Handulu Bondibai (Sweetened Sticky Rice)

A traditional Maldivian dessert, Handulu Bondibai is made for special celebrations like the birth of a child. It is often served alongside Kulhimas or enjoyed on its own. While traditionally made with rice, variations using sago or breadfruit also exist.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rice
• 2½ cups sugar
• 5 cardamom pods
• 5 pieces of fragrant pandan leaves (1-inch pieces)
• 1 tbsp rose water
• 5 cups water
• 1 cup thick coconut milk

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear.
2. In a pan, combine rice, water, coconut milk, cardamom, and pandan leaves. Cook over medium heat.
3. Once the rice is nearly soft and the water has evaporated, add sugar and stir for 3–4 minutes.
4. When the mixture becomes thick and sticky, remove from heat.
5. Stir in rose water and mix well.

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5. Kulhiboakibaa (Maldivian Fish Cake)

A delicacy enjoyed for festivals and special occasions, Kulhiboakibaa (fish cake) has been part of Maldivian cuisine for centuries. Today, it is also served as a snack with evening tea.

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups rice, soaked overnight and coarsely ground into a thick paste
• 3 cups smoked tuna, sliced (or 3 cans of tuna chunks)
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 2 finely chopped chili peppers (Dorset Naga/Chinese Capsicum/Ghost Chili)
• 2 curry leaves, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• Juice of 2 limes
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Mix onions, garlic, ginger, curry leaves, chili, lime juice, turmeric, and salt.
2. Add tuna and grated coconut, then mix well.
3. Stir in the ground rice to form a thick, sticky paste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Grease a baking pan with coconut oil and spread the mixture evenly.
5. Bake at 180°C until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

(Traditional method: Cook in a pot over an open fire, placing coconut shell embers on the lid for even baking.)

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A Culinary Legacy

Maldivian cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients, time-honored traditions, and bold flavors. Whether enjoyed at home or during festive gatherings, these dishes reflect the nation’s deep connection with the sea and its rich cultural heritage. By preserving these recipes, Maldivians continue to honor their culinary roots while sharing their unique flavors with the world.

Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of the Maldives: A Blend of Traditions and Influences

The culture of the Maldives is indeed a fascinating blend of influences from various civilizations and traditions. The early settlers from Sri Lanka and Southern India laid the foundation of the nation's culture, which was further enriched by the arrival of African, Arab, and Southeast Asian traders along ancient marine trade routes. These interactions led to the unique and diverse heritage that defines the Maldives today.

The language Dhivehi, which has roots in Sanskrit and Sinhala, is central to the Maldivian identity. The transition from Hinduism and Buddhism to Islam in 1153 AD also marks a significant cultural shift. The presence of ancient archaeological sites provides evidence of the Maldives' religious evolution, and Islam remains a cornerstone of the country’s culture.

The Maldivian royal family and their legacy from the 1900s offer a glimpse into the nation’s political history, while the stunning craftsmanship in arts and handicrafts showcases the depth of Maldivian culture. The fine stone carvings at Hukuru Miskiiy and the intricacies of wooden lacquerware and boat building illustrate the skill and creativity passed down through generations.

Bodu Beru, the popular music and dance form, highlights the influence of African slaves who settled in the Maldives in the early 19th century. Its rhythmic beats and lively performance style have become synonymous with Maldivian cultural expression. Other traditional music and dance forms, like Thaara and bandiyaa jehun, reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of Maldivian traditions.

The Maldives' culture, marked by its unique blend of indigenous, religious, and foreign influences, makes it a truly distinctive and rich society.

How people use the coconut palm in the Maldivian culture

Maldives is an island nation located very closely to the equator. This nation is a cluster of more than 1190 islands. In the spectacular view of these beautiful islands from above, one would see the decorative lush vegetation of coconut palms. Coconut palm locally known as ‘Dhivehi ruh’ (scientifically Cocos nucifera) is a good natural resource to the Maldivians, linked to their everyday lives. This is the most commonly grown tree in the Maldives. Coconut palms, found in abundance in all the islands, are declared as the national tree of the Republic of Maldives. The national emblem of Maldives also contains a coconut palm embedded in it.

Uses of coconut palm oil in the Maldivian culture

Coconut is found in abundance all throughout the Maldives. Maldives being in the tropics provides the perfect soil for coconuts to grow. Coconut palm, which also grows wild, is the most commonly grown tree in the Maldives. Maldivians find all parts of the tree useful and it is considered a good resource to Maldivians.

An overview of traditional coir rope making in the Maldives

In the past Maldivians were well known for craftsmanship on a regional basis. Coir rope making is regarded as one of the traditional handicrafts in the Maldives. People of the northern most atoll of Maldives, Haa Alif atoll is famous for the production of the highly attributed fine coir rope called "aiyvaa roanu". As Maldivians use readily available resources in their environment to produce items for their daily needs, different parts of the coconut palm is used in this regard. Coir rope was most importantly used in boats and construction of traditional "fungi" houses.

The traditional ekel broom of the Maldives

In the equatorial belt, 300 miles south west of the southern tip of India, lies the pearl necklace of the Indian Ocean, known as the Republic of Maldives. The 1190 coral islands of the Maldives belong to 26 natural atolls. With a population of about 300,000, early settlement in the Maldives is believed to have taken place in the 5th century BC. The people of Maldives highly value the traditions and culture of their nation which is well known for its natural beauty.

Traditionally, Maldivians are known to utilize what little is available from their environment to produce items that are used for their daily needs. Maldives being an island nation, the islands are isolated from each other by the vast Indian Ocean. There is limited inter island transportation, which led to the formation of individual cultures and unique ways of living among the islanders of the Maldives.