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Get ready to celebrate Maldives Independence Day on July 26! On this day in 1965, the Maldives gained its independence from British rule. This beautiful island nation has a rich history and vibrant culture that is worth celebrating. From its stunning beaches to its unique cuisine and warm hospitality, there are many reasons to love the Maldives. So let's raise our glasses (or coconuts) and toast to this special day and all the wonderful things that make the Maldives an incredible place. Happy Independence Day, Maldives!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1887</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>British Protectorate Established</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Maldives became a British Protectorate, retaining its own internal government but giving up its defense and external affairs to Britain.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1953</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Brief Republic Attempt</div><div class='timeline-text'>A brief, unsuccessful attempt was made to declare Maldives as a republic. The sultanate was re-established later the same year.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1957</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>British Airbase Established</div><div class='timeline-text'>A British airbase was established on the island of Gan in the southern Maldives.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1965</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Maldives Gains Independence</div><div class='timeline-text'>Maldives gained its full independence from British rule on July 26, hence Independence Day is celebrated annually on this day.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1968</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Republic Re-established</div><div class='timeline-text'>The sultanate was abolished and the republic was re-established. Ibrahim Nasir elected as the first president of the second republic.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2015</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>50th Anniversary of Independence</div><div class='timeline-text'>A grand celebration was held in Maldives on its 50th year of independence, showcasing its culture, history and achievements.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a parade</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Join in the celebrations by attending a parade in honor of Maldives Independence Day. Enjoy the music, dancing, and colorful floats as you celebrate the country's independence.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Try Maldivian cuisine</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Celebrate Maldives Independence Day by trying some traditional Maldivian dishes. Head to a local restaurant or cook up some recipes at home to experience the unique flavors of this island nation.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Watch a cultural show</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Immerse yourself in the culture of Maldives by watching a traditional cultural show. From dance performances to live music, this is a great way to celebrate and learn more about the history and traditions of the country.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Decorate with national flags and colors</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Show your patriotism by decorating your home or workplace with the national flag and colors of Maldives. This is a simple yet effective way to celebrate Independence Day and show your love for the country.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Take a trip to a Maldivian island</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Make the most of the long weekend by taking a trip to one of the beautiful islands of Maldives. Enjoy the crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts as you celebrate Independence Day in paradise.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Celebrate the country's rich history and culture</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Independence Day in Maldives is a time to reflect on the country's journey towards independence and celebrate its unique traditions, food, and customs. It's a great opportunity for locals and tourists alike to learn more about this beautiful island nation.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Experience vibrant parades and festivities</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Independence Day in Maldives is celebrated with lively parades, colorful decorations, and traditional performances. It's a sight to behold and a wonderful experience for visitors to immerse themselves in the local customs and celebrations.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Enjoy delicious food and drinks</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Like any other celebration, Independence Day in Maldives also means indulging in delicious food and drinks! From traditional dishes to modern fusion cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this special day.</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Maldives Became a Sultanate in the 12th Century</h3><p class='facts-content'>The Maldives became a sultanate when a local ruler declared himself Muslim and sought to bring Islamic rule to the nation. This religious and political transformation took place in the 12th century.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Independence Day Signifies the End of 78 Years of British Rule</h3><p class='facts-content'>Maldives was under British protection from 1887 until 1965, when it gained its independence. The agreement with Britain was that the Maldives would remain a self-governing territory in exchange for British military protection.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Maldives Adopts Presidential System of Governance After Independence</h3><p class='facts-content'>The country transitioned from a sultanate to a republic shortly after gaining independence. A president, elected by the people, served as both the head of state and government, marking a new era in Maldivian politics.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>A Unique Way of Celebrating Independence Day: Bashi Tournament</h3><p class='facts-content'>Bashi is a traditional ball game played by Maldivian women. On Independence Day, it's common for major islands to host a bashi tournament, attracting both locals and tourists to this unique cultural event.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Independence Day Marked The Beginning of Significant Socio-economic Changes</h3><p class='facts-content'>After gaining independence, Maldives went through a period of rapid economic growth and development. The country saw improvements in its housing, education, health services, and infrastructure, transforming it into a major tourist destination.</p></div></div>
Maldives Independence Day is celebrated on July 26 every year. In 2024, it will fall on a Friday.
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Jul 26
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2025
Jul 26
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2026
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