A Tale of Stars and Sails: Honouring Maldivian Navigators and Their Maritime Mastery
By Shaffaf Naseer
The Maldives, a nation renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, holds a rich seafaring tradition that has been passed down through generations. This maritime legacy is exemplified by the remarkable vessels known as the ‘Vedi’ and ‘Bandu Odi.’ Both types of boats reflect the ingenuity and skill of Maldivian navigators, but they serve distinct purposes and possess unique characteristics.
A Family of Navigators
My connection to this storied tradition runs deep, as both my maternal and paternal grandfathers were esteemed navigators and sailors. They owned and operated ‘Vedi,’ a type of schooner yacht designed and built by the skilled craftsmen of the deep south of the Maldives, including Addu, Fuvahmulah, and Huvadhoo. Unlike the ‘Bandu Odi,’ which is primarily designed for carrying heavy cargo, the ‘Vedi’ is built for speed and agility. These vessels have 2 or 3 masts and more sails, which are meticulously designed to facilitate smooth and fast sailing, akin to a sports yacht, but tailored to the specific needs of its users.
The Art of Navigation
The seafaring skills of my grandfathers were honed through oral traditions, illustrations, and hands-on demonstrations. Remarkably, they could navigate without a compass, relying on the stars, sun, and other natural indicators. However, they also carried a compass, blending traditional knowledge with modern tools. Among the stars that guided them were ‘Araa Murigu’ and ‘Ossey Murigu,’ celestial markers that continue to remind me of their enduring legacy.
One of the most profound lessons imparted to me was the importance of understanding ‘Kethi’—the essential knowledge of navigation. My grandfathers’ mastery of this skill was evident in their ability to remain calm even when lost in the vast Indian Ocean or the Arabian Sea. They would calmly wake up, prepare a pot of Ceylon black tea, and methodically use maps, rulers, and the positions of the stars and sun to determine their location and plot their course.
Trade and Commerce
The primary destination for many Maldivian sailors, including my grandfathers, was ‘Ceylon’ (Sri Lanka). The trade winds often dictated their journeys, allowing for regular travel to this key port. The ‘Vedi’ vessels, with their enhanced speed and navigability, made these long journeys more efficient. Sri Lanka was not only a frequent port of call but also a vital trade partner. Maldivians imported a variety of goods from Sri Lanka and exported local products such as the famous smoked-dried tuna more commonly known as Maldive Fish.
On unique occasions, their voyages extended to places known as ‘Asey Kara’ (Aceh and other parts of Indonesia) and ‘Bangaalha’ (Bengal), among other international locations. These expeditions underscored the far-reaching impact of Maldivian seafaring culture, which fostered connections and commerce across the Indian Ocean.
A Living Legacy
Though my grandfathers have left this world, their legacy lives on in the stars and in the stories they passed down. Every night, as I look up at ‘Araa Murigu’ and ‘Ossey Murigu,’ I am reminded of their incredible journeys and the rich maritime heritage they embodied. The ‘Vedi’ and ‘Bandu Odi’ are more than just vessels; they are symbols of a culture that values skill, knowledge, and a deep connection to the sea.
In celebrating this heritage, we honour the ingenuity and resilience of Maldivian navigators and ensure that their stories continue to inspire future generations.
Leave a Reply