Gov’t to Take Action Arsonists Targeting Historic Tree in Baarah

The National Centre for Cultural Heritage has announced to take action against the perpetrators responsible for setting fire to a Kaani tree, believed to have been planted by the national hero Bodu Thakurufaanu around 400 years ago in HA. Baarah.

In a statement issued, the Centre confirmed that the tree was set ablaze during the early hours of yesterday. Collaborating with Baarah Council and Maldives Police Service, immediate steps were initiated to identify those involved in the arson. The Centre expressed intentions to formally lodge a complaint with the Police to launch a thorough investigation into the incident.

Emphasising the significance of preserving historical and cultural heritage for future generations, the Centre urged the public to extend full cooperation to the relevant authorities in their endeavours.

Local historian Najeeh Didi shed light on the historical roots of the torched tree, indicating its origin from a branch believed to have been planted by Bodu Thakurufaanu himself. According to Didi, this branch was used to sew the sail of Boduthakurufaanu renowned vessel, ‘Kalhuohfummi.’

Bodu Thakurufaanu, also known as Sulṭan al-Ghaazee Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-A’uẓam, held sway over the Maldives from 1573 to 1585, notably leading the resistance against the Portuguese occupation from 1558 to 1573, subsequent to the demise of Sultan Ali VI in Male’.

His valiant efforts are commemorated annually in the Maldives as National Day.

This incident echoes a similar occurrence in 2018, when another tree purportedly planted by Bodu Thakurufaanu was set ablaze in HA. Thakandhoo.