Eid Al-Adha  - Th. Kinbidhoo, Maldives

Eid Al-Adha - Th. Kinbidhoo, Maldives

Eid al-Adha in Th. Kinbidhoo is marked by Bodu Kun’bus, followed by a communal Eid Govaalun meal. Lively Langiri and Magufirimi dances highlight the festivities, alongside crafting supernatural figures Beyya, Bodumas, Ilibo, and Koadi.

 

Bodu Kun'bus

The arrival of Eid al-Adha is marked by the cherished tradition of preparing kun'bus, a sweet treat enjoyed before Eid prayers. This long-standing practice brings the entire community together in joyful celebration. After the kun'bus is cut, it is distributed to each house on the island.

More about Bodu Kun'bus →

Eid Govaalun

Each household prepares their own Eid Govaalun, a special meal made by the women of the house. This meal is brought to the Haruge, the central communal hall. The meal includes tuna or chicken curry and Roshi (roti), served with tea. 
The entire island community gathers for a grand feast following Eid prayers. This event is particularly special, as it is the only time each year when every islander comes together under one roof to celebrate.

Magufirimi

Magufirimi is a traditional Maldivian dance performed by men, featuring rhythmic stick movements and traditional Maldivian music. The performance concludes with  ‘ Dhafi Negun ’, where women present gifts to the dancers and are honored with a special song.

 Langiri

Langiri is a lively dance performed by women, known for its energetic and rhythmic movements set to traditional music. At the end of the performance, the dancers are rewarded by the men in a tradition called ‘Malaafiy Negun’.

More about Langiri →

Beyya

Beyyas are supernatural figures brought to life by the islanders of Kinbidhoo during the third day of Eid al-Adha. These imaginative creations are deeply rooted in local folklore, inspired by tales of monsters emerging from the sea.

More about Beyya →

Bodumas & Ilibo

Bodumas Beynun is a tradition during Eid where islanders gather to catch a large fish made of woven coconut palm leaves, recreating folklore about a giant fish that emerged from the sea. This tradition retells the story of islanders, aided by a holy man, who ultimately capture the giant fish. 
Ilibo is a tall figure made from palm fronds, rooted in Maldivian folklore. Traditionally used to collect Ulhaali (gifts) from islanders, Ilibo is taken to smaller roads, while Bodumas is paraded on larger roads.


More about Bodumas & Ilibo →

Koadi

Koadi is a wooden pole adorned with palm fronds. During the evening celebration, men and women secretly cut each other’s Koadi, adding suspense to the event. At the end, both Koadi are cut down, and the cutters receive a playful punishment, being bathed and then rewarded by the islanders.

More about Koadi →
Back to Stories

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.