The ‘Bodu Thakurufaanu Dhoraashi’, a commemorative gateway developed in Utheemu in Haa Alifu Atoll under the government’s ‘Reviving Ghazi Radhun’s Memory’ initiative, was officially inaugurated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
The monument was unveiled during a formal ceremony Saturday morning, coinciding with the president’s official visit to the island for National Day celebrations. Attended by invited dignitaries and local residents, the proceedings concluded with President Muizzu touring the completed waterfront structure, which complements an existing monument to the sailing vessel ‘Kalhuohfummi’ at the island’s harbour.
Conceived as a tribute to Sultan al-Ghazi Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-Auzam Siri Savadheetha Maha Radhun, known as Bodu Thakurufaanu, the gateway commemorates national liberation from Portuguese colonial rule following his victory 467 years ago. The structure incorporates six primary pillars inspired by ancient mosques, each honouring a historical figure from the maritime campaign: Mohamed Thakurufaanu, his elder brother Ali Thakurufaanu, his younger brother Hassan Thakurufaanu, Dhuvaafaru Dhandahelu, and Ali and Hassan Haji of Thimarafushi.
At night, six lanterns on the upper tier illuminate the structure, which features replicas of historical mosque stone carvings and sixteenth-century lacquerwork. A central portal, modelled after early mosque entranceways, represents Bodu Thakurufaanu’s defence of the Islamic faith and promotion of religious education. Resting on a stepped foundation beneath the state emblem, the gateway incorporates early ‘Thaana’ script and an engraving of the poem ‘Thaareekhee Handhaan’ by the late Mohamed Jameel Didi.
Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage officials described the gateway as the practical launch of a broader policy championed by the president to safeguard physical legacy and monetise cultural heritage. Under this programme, the administration intends to establish Utheemu as a premier heritage destination. Officials projected that tourism will drive demand for guesthouses, restaurants, cafés, maritime transport, tour guides, and handicrafts, reinforcing ongoing public service upgrades.