Action to be taken against arsonists who torched Baarah tree

National Centre for Cultural Heritage states action will be taken against the arsonists who torched a beach cordia, known locally as kaani, said to be planted by the national hero Bodu Thakurufaanu in HA. Baarah some 400 years ago.

The centre, in a statement, said the tree was torched in the early hours of Wednesday.

The statement read that the centre, in collaboration with Baarah Council and Maldives Police Service, commenced efforts to identify the arsonists as soon as the arson came to their attention. The centre also noted that they will file a formal complaint with the Police to investigate the arson.

The centre added that they will undertake efforts to take action against the arsonists following the conclusion of their investigation.

The centre, describing preserving history and heritage for future generations as a trust, urged the public to cooperate with the relevant authorities in these efforts.

According to Najeeh Didi, a local historian, the tree grew from a branch with Bodu Thakurufaaru put in the ground, to sew the sail of his famed boat ‘Kalhuohfummi.’

Bodu Thakurufaanu, or Sulṭan al-Ghaazee Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-A'uẓam, ruled over the Maldives from 1573 to 1585. He is known for fighting the Portuguese, who ruled over the Maldives from 1558–1573, after killing Sultan Ali VI in Male’.

His victory is commemorated in the Maldives as National Day. 

In 2018, another tree said to be planted by Bodu Thakurufaanu was torched in HA. Thakandhoo.