Gaa Odi Lava is a popular folk music
and dance performance that is carried out by people as a means to
express their satisfaction on having completed a hard manual work. The
origin of Gaa Odi Lava folk music of Maldives can be traced back during
the reign of Sultan Mohamed Imadudeen I (1620-1648AD). Read on to know
more about the Maldives Gaa Odi Lava folk music.
In order to defend Male, the capital city of Maldives, the Sultan
decided to build a break water around the island. To accomplish the
goal, he divided his workforce into various "odi" or vessels
to carry the coral stones from the various reefs. On completion of the
task, each worker ceremonially visited the Sultan. To express their
happiness, these workmen sang songs and danced to the tune of music and
this is how the concept of Gaa (stones) Odi (vessels) was born.
