Maldivian police have canceled the ‘Pongal 2025’ festival, which was scheduled for February 7 at the Hulhumale Synthetic Track. The event, organized by a group of Indian nationals in the Maldives, aimed to celebrate the traditional Tamil harvest festival, Pongal.
Pongal is a significant religious festival celebrated with vibrant customs among Tamil communities in India, typically occurring in mid-January each year. The planned event in Hulhumale sought to bring together the Tamil diaspora to observe this cultural tradition.
Authorities have informed the organizers that the festival cannot proceed as planned. While official statements did not disclose the identities of the organizers, information indicates that the Maldives-Tamil Friendship Club, also known as the Royal Tiger Club, was behind the event. This association is known for conducting various social activities within the Maldives.
In a statement, the police emphasized, “The organizers have been informed that the festival has now been canceled.” They further warned that any attempt to conduct such activities would be halted by the police service.
Maldives, is a predominantly Muslim nation, has strict regulations concerning religious practices and public gatherings. The intervention by authorities underscores the sensitivity surrounding the observance of non-Islamic religious events in the country.
The cancellation has sparked discussions on social media platforms. Some users have expressed concerns over the organization of religious festivals in the Maldives, labeling them as contrary to Islamic beliefs. For instance, a user on X (formerly Twitter) stated, “Maldives Tamil Sangam is organizing the Shirk Festival of Pongal in Hulhumale. We will not be tolerating normalizing and organizing shirk festivals in this land.”
The Maldives, a 100% Islamic country, prohibits public observance of any religion other than Islam. Religious gatherings such as Bible study groups are prohibited; however, a foreign family unit may practice its religion, including Bible readings, within its residence. It is against the law to invite or encourage Maldivian citizens to attend these gatherings. Offenders may face jail sentences, expulsion, and/or fines.
