Veteran Writer and Journalist Madulu Mohamed Waheed Dies Aged 77
Madulu Mohamed Waheed speaking at the Anti-Corruption Commission during Dhivehi Language Day in 2019. | Photo credit: Anti-Corruption Commission
Madulu Mohamed Waheed, a prominent figure in Dhivehi language and journalism, died at the age of 77 on Monday at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) following a long illness.
Waheed dedicated over five decades to the advancement of Dhivehi literature and journalism, earning widespread respect for his unfiltered storytelling and commitment to truth. He was honoured with the National Award of Honour for his contributions to Dhivehi literature, in addition to receiving the National Award for Recognition in the fields of literature and short stories in 1985 and 1997, respectively. In 2019, he was presented with the ‘Alimas Galan’—one of the highest accolades in Maldivian journalism.
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His literary journey began during his studies in India, where he was introduced to writing. Upon returning to the Maldives in 1973, Waheed began reporting international news by tuning into global radio broadcasts. He soon became a regular contributor to Moonlight, a daily newspaper at the time. His passion for writing, however, stemmed from his school years, during which he wrote under the name ‘Hoarafushi Waheed’.
Waheed’s commitment to journalism took him abroad for training in news writing in India, England and Yugoslavia. Known for writing short stories inspired by everyday conversations and minor events, he published numerous stories and collections throughout his career, with titles such as “Islaamee Adhab Akhlaaq”, “Hayaathuge Hadhiya”, “Haleesa”, “Dhivehi Raajjeyge Fathuruverikan”, and “Kiyavaasheve”. Some of his most popular works include “Nukulhedhey Asar”, “Sakeenage Hiydhathikan” and “Maegge Asaru”.”
His translation of H.C.P. Bell’s The Máldive Islands: Monograph on the History, Archaeology and Epigraphy was another notable contribution to Maldivian literary heritage. Waheed was also instrumental in raising public awareness through various media initiatives, including Radio Haveeru, a UNESCO-supported radio series, and “Kathiri”, a television programme aired by TVM.
Waheed began government service on 17 December 1966 as an English scribe for Vuzaarathul Thiraajaa. Over a 35-year career in public service, he held several senior roles at the Department of Information and Broadcasting, including Assistant Director, Deputy Director, and Director General. He also served as Director of the National Institute for Dhivehi Language and Heritage, and later as a special advisor to the Institute.
In the later stages of his career, Waheed held the position of chairman of the Maldives National Broadcasting Commission (MNBC), which was formed during the administration of former President Mohamed Nasheed. His enduring legacy remains deeply embedded in both Dhivehi literature and the development of Maldivian journalism.
