On The Occasion Of The 32nd National Poets’ Day Which Was Dedicated To ‘Narugis Maa’

Since the year 1989, on every 15th of January, the Maldivian nation marks the National Poets’ Day which is locally titled; ‘Lhenveringe Dhuvas’. Poetry makes up an integral part of Dhivehi literature. The date was chosen in order to honor of the passing of famous orator and poet, Late Al-Uthaaz. Ibrahim Shihab, one of the most prolific and talented local writer to ever exist. He was the son of Hussain Salahuddin, another influential local poet who was also a scholar. 

In celebration of the day, every year a specific poet is honored and remembered. On this 32nd National Poets’ Day, the one selected was Late Ms. Fathimath Saeed who goes by the pen name ‘Narugis Maa’. She was a disciple of Hussain Salahuddin. Ms. Fathimath Saeed specialized in writing poetry in all areas. A compilation of her works was published in 1998. 

The theme of this year’s National Poets’ Day derives from one of her poems, ‘Thedhuvaashe Alun Aadhirumeh Dheyne Gothehgai’ – loosely translated in English as, ‘get up with purpose of renewing hope’ – in light of the recovering from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 

Whilst we celebrate the day, we must note that poetry and other forms of Dhivehi literature are slowly fading away. Hence, we stress on the importance of instilling love and interest amongst all Maldivian for Dhivehi Literature.