Keemakolhu (a Tradition Sedan Chair)
Author(s)
Title
Keemakolhu (a Tradition Sedan Chair)
Alternative Title
Keemakolhu (ކީމަކޮޅު)
Publication Type
Language
div
Number of Pages
3
Location
Maldives
Keywords
Royalty
Sedan chair
Maldives
Tradition
Culture
Travelling in Keemakolhu
Relevance to ICH Safeguarding
ICH Genre
Description
Keemakolhu is a traditional sedan chair used by the royalty of the Maldives. This sedan chair was especially for the women of the inner palace (Naamaan Beyfulhun) when they want to travel during daytime.
As Namaan Beyfulhun were not people for the eye of the public, this sedan chair is covered all around measuring 8x8x8 ft. The Keemakolhu is decorated with a pleated trim at the roof edge and thick screens of fabric provides privacy. These screens are decorated with Bihura, a black and red design between two Hiru (a thin decorative line that runs alongside a bigger design). This chair also has 4 handles extending outwards adorned with spiraling black and white fabric or ornate lacquer work. Each of these handles have a flower bouquet made of cotton.
Keemakolhugai Vadaigathun or travelling in Keemakolhu employs 4 people at each of its handles. When the Naamaan Beyfulhun desires to travel, the Keemakolhu waits in front of the respective palace till the person comes out. Once they do, the corner of a flap on front side is lifted for the person to enter and then tied back to the frame once they settle. The Keemakolhu is carried ensuring the bottom of it is just above the ground. The small thinly veiled windows cut to the face of the Keemakolhu ensures the traveler can see outside.
When the Keemakolhu reaches its destination, the previously mentioned flap is untied and lifted for the traveler to come out. Once the destination is reached, the Keemakolhugai Vadaigathun is complete. This practice has not been observed in the Maldives since the monarchy was abolished in the mid-20th century to make way for a republic. However, it remains a significant part of the nation's rich history and culture, reflecting the status and esteem of Maldivian royalty.
As Namaan Beyfulhun were not people for the eye of the public, this sedan chair is covered all around measuring 8x8x8 ft. The Keemakolhu is decorated with a pleated trim at the roof edge and thick screens of fabric provides privacy. These screens are decorated with Bihura, a black and red design between two Hiru (a thin decorative line that runs alongside a bigger design). This chair also has 4 handles extending outwards adorned with spiraling black and white fabric or ornate lacquer work. Each of these handles have a flower bouquet made of cotton.
Keemakolhugai Vadaigathun or travelling in Keemakolhu employs 4 people at each of its handles. When the Naamaan Beyfulhun desires to travel, the Keemakolhu waits in front of the respective palace till the person comes out. Once they do, the corner of a flap on front side is lifted for the person to enter and then tied back to the frame once they settle. The Keemakolhu is carried ensuring the bottom of it is just above the ground. The small thinly veiled windows cut to the face of the Keemakolhu ensures the traveler can see outside.
When the Keemakolhu reaches its destination, the previously mentioned flap is untied and lifted for the traveler to come out. Once the destination is reached, the Keemakolhugai Vadaigathun is complete. This practice has not been observed in the Maldives since the monarchy was abolished in the mid-20th century to make way for a republic. However, it remains a significant part of the nation's rich history and culture, reflecting the status and esteem of Maldivian royalty.
Book/Journal Title
Publisher
The Academy of Dhivehi Language (Dhivehi Bahuge Academy)
Place of Publication
Male', Maldives
Date of Publication
Nov 1986
Issue
92
Pages
17-19
Academic Field
Cultural studies
History
Community/Ethnic Group
Maldivian royalty
Contributor
Active Contribution
Maldives, FY 2024