Music in South Asia

Maldives

Music from the islands of Maldives reflect the music of neighboring countries at different ends of the Indian Ocean.

Hindi songs from India are hugely popular, and the lyrics and melodies lend themselves easily to translation into Divehi, Maldives’  main language.

A popular instrument is the bulbul, which is similar to an accordion. Other musical styles reflect similarities with East Africa and the Middle East. Boduberu music is a dance music with a lead singer, three percussionists, a bell and a stick of bamboo with grooves in it like a Latin American guiro. Starting off slowly, boduberu songs increase in tempo as they progress, concluding at a very fast pace.

Thaara music reflects more Arabic beginnings as two rows of men sit opposite each other and sing religious songs that increase in tempo over time. The popular langiri style is similar to thaara, but women can also perform it.

Use the menu to the left to learn more about
music in other South Asia countries.