Maalhendhoo Ziyaaraiyy Sarahahdu

#culturalheritage #oralhistory #cemetery #maldives
This interview features Ibrahim Abdul Hakeem, a 76-year-old elder from N.Maalhendhoo. He describes the condition of the Ziyaaraiyy (MAHS-MDV-NON-MAL-S-001-F-0001) on his island when he was a younger laborer. The Ziyaaraiyy was meticulously cared for and the surroundings were adorned with hanging fabrics. Inside, a Bisthaan was set up, and fabrics were suspended, accompanied by the placement of small and towering flags around the Ziyaaraiyy in a specific arrangement. The flags were washed and a spare set was kept on hand to ensure the Ziyaaraiyy always had clean flags. This period coincided with the prevalence of the practice known as "Nadr," where individuals would make offerings to the Ziyaaraiyy while making wishes. People often presented coconuts, and on more significant events, they would place white sand near the Ziyaaraiyy. The Ziyaaraiyy was well looked after, with regular sand application and sweeping. In times of reduced fishing, the community would conduct a ritual called "Kanzooree." This ritual involved using a large hall surrounding the Ziyaaraiyy. Locals would prepare substantial amounts of food, which they placed in "Malaafaiyy," a sizable round container adorned with Maldivian lacquer work. They would gather to dine and engage in religious recitations. The timing of this ritual was not fixed and was performed in response to specific circumstances, such as the spread of illness or declining fish yields.
Adjacent to the Ziyaaraiyy's entrance, there was a well-renowned for the quality of its water. In cases of sickness, people would draw water from this well for consumption. This well was meticulously maintained and cleaned. The largest flag was situated near this well. In the event of roof leaks during rain, repairs were conducted using roof tiles.
Throughout Ibrahim Abdul Hakeem’s lifetime, the Ziyaaraiyy underwent significant renovations. There were small windows adorned with white fabric. A small wooden structure was erected inside, above the Bisthaan. White fabric covered this structure, with wooden planks placed on top. The Ziyaariaiyy had a door on one side to spread the smoke. The interior of the Ziyaaraiyy had a designated floor, which was meticulously maintained, akin to the cleanliness of someone's home. Traditionally, smoke would be spread within the Ziyaaraiyy every Thursday and Sunday night. This task was usually entrusted to the "Mudhimu," the person leading the prayer. The smoke was generated by grinding dried "Goh Kulhan'dhuru," a tree known for its flat leaves that spread on the ground and had tubers also bearing the same name, which were used for perfumery and medicinal purposes due to their fragrant scent. This was mixed with "Dhunsamaraani," a red-colored substance used to spread the smoke; "Vaigugoo," dried sap from a tree; and fragrant twigs from trees including "Burevi." Between the cemetery and the offering pile, coconut shells were burned along with this mixture. The smoke was carefully managed to prevent any fire hazards.
During those times, much like in many other islands, the Ziyaaraiyy was well-maintained. However, as time passed and various leaders took charge, this place was left in a state of abandonment, and the building has deteriorated. People are no longer inclined to carry out the rituals. According to Islamic scholars, this abandonment aligns with Islamic teachings, and the community subscribes to this belief. Consequently, these practices have been discontinued. In the present day, the Ziyaaraiyy is in a state of disrepair, the well is filled with sand, and the encroaching vegetation is further deteriorating the structure.
Ibrahim Abdul Hakeem has heard accounts suggesting that there may be a connection between this Ziyaaraiyy and another in N. Kudafari.
Credits:
Interviewer: Ibrahim Mujah
Executive Producer: Mohamed Shamran, Ibrahim Mujah
Translated By: Ahmed Raaif Abdul Wahid
Edited by: Mohamed Shamran
The full metadata for this oral history interview can be found in the Maritime Asia Heritage Survey database under record (MAHS-MDV-NON-MAL-S-001-OH-001).
The Maritime Asia Heritage Survey is based at Kyoto University’s Center for Southeast Asian Studies, under the direction of Professor R. Michael Feener. The MAHS has field survey teams working across multiple countries contributing to the ongoing development of an open-access online archive. Our growing dataset of archaeological sites and historical artifacts from the Maldives, Indonesia, and other countries of the region can be accessed at: maritimeasiahe...
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