26-07-2025
Today In History: 60 Yrs Ago, This Nation Freed Itself From Brits — Like India
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PM Modi is in the Maldives as the Guest of Honour for its 60th Independence Day.
The Maldives will celebrate its 60th Independence Day on July 26 this year, marking six decades since gaining freedom from British protectorate status. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is attending the ceremony as the guest of honour and will meet with President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's eighth president.
PM Modi's visit seeks to deepen ties between India and the Maldives, especially under the India‑Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, launched during President Muizzu's State Visit to India in October last year.
The Maldives, a beautiful chain of islands in the Indian Ocean, was first inhabited around 1500 BC, likely by Aryan settlers who also colonised parts of Sri Lanka. Over time, more people came from southern India and Sri Lanka, helping the population grow.
Around 947 AD, the Maldives began connecting with the outside world when Arab traders started visiting for its pearls, spices, dried fish, coconuts, and especially cowry shells, which were used as currency across many countries. These traders had a strong cultural influence, especially in religion. In 1153 AD, the Maldives officially converted to Islam, and rulers began to be known as Sultans.
The islands saw many ruling dynasties, including the Maley, Hilali, and Utheemu dynasties. During the Hilali period, foreign relations began, bringing more attention to the islands. However, not all foreign interests were friendly. In the mid-1500s, the Portuguese invaded and ruled for 15 years until they were defeated by national hero Mohammed Thakurufaanu, who founded the Utheemu dynasty.
Later, attacks came from Malabar (South India), and although the Maldives resisted, the Utheemu dynasty fell. The Huraage dynasty, led by Ghazi Hassan Izzaddeen, then took over and ruled until the 20th century.
In 1887, the Maldives became a British Protectorate, meaning Britain handled its defence and foreign affairs. This continued until 26 July 1965, when the Maldives officially gained full independence. Just a few years later, in 1968, the country became the Republic of Maldives, ending the rule of sultans and starting a new democratic chapter.
Life After Independence: Maldives' Transformation
After gaining independence from Britain in 1965, the Maldives entered a new phase, but the journey wasn't easy.
Economically, the country struggled in the beginning. It had relied mostly on fish and coconut exports under British rule, so building a more stable and diverse economy was a major challenge.
Politically, the Maldives shifted from a monarchy to a republic in 1968, but this transition came with instability and frequent leadership changes, slowing down development.
Socially, the country began to open up to the world. Tourism boomed, and with it came Western influences, changing the way people lived, dressed, and thought. While this brought growth and modern comforts, many also worried about losing traditional values and cultural identity.
Despite the challenges, independence allowed the Maldives to shape its future, step by step.
PM Modi in Maldives as Ties with Island Nation Improve
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently in the Maldives to attend the country's 60th Independence Day celebrations in Male on July 26. His visit marks a big step forward in strengthening India-Maldives relations.
Just 18 months ago, ties had become strained after Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu came to power on an 'India Out' campaign. However, things began to change after both leaders met during the UN COP28 summit in December 2023, where they agreed to deepen economic and cultural cooperation.
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