Kadhaa Maali is a form of traditional
music and dance that can be found only in Kulhudhuffushi in the south
Thiladhunmathi atoll. From where did this Kadhaa Maali folk dance come
from is unknown. To initiate the Kadhaa Maali folk dance of Maldives, a
number of drums are beaten. It is accompanied by the beating of an
instrument made from copper rod or copper plate named 'Kadhaa'. Read on
to know more about Maldives Kadhaamaali folk dance.
While playing music, about 30 men dressed in different costumes dance
to the tunes of music. Their garments exhibit various ghostly figures
and evil spirits. It is these ghosts or the evil spirits that are
addressed as "Maali". When there is any kind of terrible
sickness spreading in the island, people do a late night walk to ward
off the evil spirits. The walk continues for three nights and it is on
the third night that this dance is performed. This dance show also takes
place to celebrate the festivities.
