Maldives, an archipelago renowned for its picturesque beaches and luxurious resorts, holds a rich historical past that often goes unnoticed. The transformation from Buddhism to Islam during the 12th century marks a significant turning point in the country’s cultural and religious landscape. However, recent revelations shed light on the darker aspects of this historical transition, while also highlighting the present-day challenges faced by the Maldivian society.
According to historical accounts, the Maldives, which had embraced Buddhism since the 4th century BC, underwent a conversion to Islam in 1153 AD. A Muslim scholar known as Abul Barakat Yoosuf Al Barbary from Maghrib (Morocco), played a pivotal role in this religious transformation. Having memorized the entire Holy Quran, Abul Barakat dedicated himself to converting the local king, Sri Tribuvana Aditiya, to Islam.
Hinduism and Buddhism in the Maldives
The foundation of the Maldivian Monarchy can be attributed to Sri Soorudasaruna Aaditiya, a Buddhist king and son of Brahmaditiya, the king of Kalinga in present-day Orissa, India. Sri Soorudasaruna Aaditiya is believed to have introduced Buddhism to the Maldives during his reign. However, archaeological evidence also indicates the coexistence of the Hindu religion alongside Buddhism, suggesting a diverse religious landscape.
The Significance of the Gautama Buddha Relic
According to Buddhist texts, the Maldives’ connection with Buddhism can be traced back to the time of Gautama Buddha’s death. After the cremation of Gautama Buddha in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India, a disciple named Khema retrieved a canine tooth relic from the funeral pyre and presented it to King Brahmadatte of Kalinga. This relic became a symbol of the right to rule and sparked numerous conflicts and wars. Eventually, the tooth relic passed into the hands of King Guhasiva of Kalinga, who later bestowed it upon his daughter Hemamala and her husband Prince Danta. They journeyed to Sri Lanka, where the relic resides today in the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
Kalinga: A Hub of Buddhism and Naval Power
The ancient kingdom of Kalinga played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism throughout South and Southeast Asia. Kalinga’s strong naval presence in the first century A.D. facilitated the dissemination of Buddhist teachings. Moreover, Kalinga’s influence extended beyond the Indian subcontinent, as evidenced by the establishment of a kingdom in Java, Indonesia, in 800 A.D. These historical connections illustrate the far-reaching impact of Kalinga’s engagement with Buddhism.
The Somavanshi Dynasty and the Maldivian Monarchy
During the tenth century A.D., Kalinga came under the rule of the Somavanshi Dynasty. Coinciding with this period, the Maldives also fell under the influence of the Somavanshi Dynasty. King Sri Baaladitiya, the first ruler of the Somavanshi Dynasty in the Maldives, assumed the throne during this time. The connection between Kalinga and the Maldives becomes further apparent as Sri Soorudasaruna, the founding king of the Maldives, arrived in the archipelago after being sent away from Kalinga by his father, accompanied by his wife and 700 soldiers.
The Koimala Legend and Hindu-Buddhist Heritage
Within Maldivian history, the Koimala legend represents a significant narrative closely linked to the country’s Hindu and Buddhist heritage. The legend portrays Koimala, a foreigner with noble blood, who arrived in the Maldives with his family and assumed the role of ruler. The various versions of the Koimala tale emphasize the influence of Kalinga, the arrival of a foreign lineage, and the consolidation of power in the Maldives.
Conversion to Islam
After persistent efforts, Abul Barakat succeeded in converting the king, who adopted the name Muhammad Ibn Abdulla. Following the conversion of the king and his family, the process of spreading Islam throughout the islands began. Reports suggest that those who refused to embrace Islam were met with violence, resulting in numerous deaths and bodies being thrown into the ocean. Non-compliant individuals were also imprisoned, while Buddhist monasteries were converted into mosques across the country.
Abdul Barakat chose to remain in the Maldives for the remainder of his life. His final resting place, known as Medhu Ziyaaraiy, can be found within the grounds of the Hukuru Mosque in the capital city of Malé, which was the first Friday mosque constructed in the Maldives.
The Modern Maldives
However, despite the historical narrative, there exists an intriguing contradiction within the education system of the Maldives. Young children are taught the tale of Rannamari, a mythical sea demon that demanded the sacrifice of a virgin every month. The Moroccan visitor, who claimed to possess the ability to exorcise the demon, replaced the sacrificial girl in the temple and banished Rannamari forever. Subsequently, he urged the Maldivians to embrace Islam and abandon Buddhism. Surprisingly, this fictional story is widely believed by children and continues to be propagated in schools.
Maldives and India
While Maldives has received support from successive Indian governments due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, the treatment of Indians within the country is often disheartening. Despite the significant presence of Indian teachers and professionals, reports highlight instances of mistreatment and discrimination. The majority of teachers in Maldives are Indians, and their experiences shed light on the challenges they face.
Shocking usage of drugs
Amidst the allure of the Maldives’ idyllic beaches, there are underlying social issues that often go unnoticed. The ban on alcohol, while commendable, has inadvertently contributed to a rise in the availability of dangerous drugs, even in small islands. Shockingly, drug addiction has permeated into the lives of school children, and associated crimes are on the rise. The stark reality of the Maldives paints a different picture from the images of luxury resorts typically portrayed in the media.
As the Maldivian society grapples with the complexities of its historical roots and present-day challenges, it is crucial to foster awareness and understanding. Acknowledging and addressing these issues can help pave the way for a more inclusive and harmonious future in the Maldives, where the true essence of its culture and people can flourish.
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