A Glimpse into the Historical Heritage of the Maldives
I. Ancient Beginnings: 2,000 Years of History
The Maldives, often referred to as the Divehi Rajje, boasts a rich history spanning over two millennia. It all began in a time of Buddhism and Hinduism when the first Hindu kingdom of Deva Mari was founded. Surudasaruna Aditya, supposedly the son of King Sri Brahma Aditya of Kalinja, established this kingdom. Following the conversion of his descendants to Buddhism in the 3rd century BC, the kingdom became known as Deva Mahal. The Solar Dynasty, which ruled for centuries, eventually gave way to the Lunar Dynasty.
III. The Emergence of an Islamic Sultanate
The Maldives, comprising over a thousand low-lying coral islands and atolls, gradually established close trading and cultural ties with the Arab world, leading to the formation of an Islamic Sultanate on July 7, 1153. However, the full integration of Islam into Maldivian society took centuries and included measures to eradicate non-Muslim practices, the rewriting of history, and the disavowal of the pre-Islamic heritage.
V. A Century of Transformation and Independence
The mid-20th century saw political upheavals, including a brief experiment without a Sultan in 1953, which proved unsuccessful. However, the monarchy was restored in 1954, with the country finally gaining full independence on July 26, 1965. The Sultan was proclaimed King with the style of "His Majesty." Sadly, the monarchy was short-lived, as a republic was established on November 11, 1968, and the former King passed away six months later.
VII. Styles and Titles of the Maldivian Monarchy
The Maldivian monarchy featured a unique blend of Islamic and Divehi titles and styles. The Sovereign, after 1965, held the title "Jala'ala ul-Malik" and the style of "His Majesty." Previous rulers were styled as "Sultan of Land and Sea" and "Lord of the twelve-thousand islands." Royal consorts, sons, and daughters also held distinct titles and styles. Additionally, the nobility had its own set of titles, with male and female designations.
IX. Rules of Succession
The Maldivian rulers followed specific rules of succession, including being Sunni Muslims, free from Sharia offenses, and born as a son or grandson in the male line of a king descended from King Ghazi Hassan Izudeen, among other criteria.
XI. Glossary of Maldivian Terms
A comprehensive glossary of Maldivian terms was instrumental in understanding the historical and cultural nuances of the Maldives. From titles like "Ras Kilege" to roles like "Thakurufa'anu," these terms provided insight into the structure of the society.
II. Shifting Tides of Invasion and Religion
Throughout history, the Maldives witnessed a series of invasions and conversions. The Chola King's invasion in the 10th century marked a turning point, as he established control over the northernmost atolls. The kingdom was later unified by King Maha Parama in 1117 after expelling the invaders. However, it wasn't until 1153 that the Maldives saw the conversion to Islam, with King Tribhuwana and his brother, Sri Kalo, leading the way. This new faith, although introduced in 1127, took time to fully permeate the islands, often requiring force and bloodshed.
IV. Colonial Intrigues and British Protectorate
Despite trading with the Dutch, the Maldives remained detached from Western powers for two centuries. This isolation continued until the British, concerned about the islands falling under foreign control, established a protectorate on December 16, 1887. The British administration's approach could be described as "sublime indifference," as they remained uninvolved in internal political changes and even recognized an accidental ruler.
VI. The Shifting Sands of Republics
The new republican regime displayed monarchist tendencies initially, with the new President hailing from a noble and royal lineage. However, subsequent governments veered toward anti-monarchist sentiments. Historical research and discussion were actively discouraged, and the quest to establish any royal descent for the presidential family proved fruitless. Nonetheless, the family later claimed a sayyidi descent, marking the senior family of such lineage worldwide.
VIII. A Glimpse into the Maldivian Hierarchy
In the Maldives, there was no hereditary nobility, but a limited number of noble titles were granted for individuals' lifetimes. Commoners were at times appointed to these titles, raising their status into the aristocracy. The titles ranged from Kilege and Kilegefa'anu for males to Rani Kilege and Ma'ava Kilege for females.
X. Orders and Decorations
Two notable orders and decorations were awarded in the Maldives: the "Order of the Distinguished Leader" and the "Military Medal." These honors were bestowed for exceptional service and achievements.
XII. Waliyy ul-Amr: The Maldivian Republic's Brief Experiment
A historical insight into the short-lived Maldivian Republic of 1953-1954, where the title "Waliyy ul-Amr" was held by the Head of State.
The history of the Maldives is a tale of ancient kingdoms, shifting religions, colonial influences, and the transformation from monarchy to republic. Through the ebb and flow of centuries, this island nation has retained its unique cultural and historical identity.