03/06/2024
Maldives’ main religion was Buddhism until they embraced Islam in 1153. After converting, the Buddhist temples and statues used for worship were no longer needed. Some islanders completely disposed of these artifacts, while others, buried them under sand and rocks. These mounds are called “havitha” or “hahtheli” in Laamu Atoll. They are over a hundred years old and resemble small hills. Over the years, trees and other vegetation have grown over them. Locals say that people have dug up many treasures and ornaments from these sites in the past. Today, “havitha” is taken care of by the locals as respect to their history and for tourism.
Photos taken for and in 2023 and were featured “On the frontlines: Climate-induced loss and damage in Asia and Africa” in Bonn, Germany.
