Maldives national day celebrates the victory of Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam over the Portuguese occupation in 1573.  

In 1558, the Portuguese established a garrison which they administered from Goa. They killed the Sultan Ali VI of the Maldives and effectively instigated colonial rule. 

Did you know? 

The Maldives is the smallest country in Asia and also the smallest Muslim country in the world. 

In 1573, Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam along with his two brothers and companions led a local revolt when the Portuguese attempted to impose Christianity on the Muslim population. The attacks drove the Portuguese out of Maldives and ended fifteen years of colonial rule.  

Muhammad Thakurufaanu ruled as Sultan until his death from natural causes on 26 August 1585. He is revered as the national hero of the Maldives and 1st of Rabee ul Awwal each Islamic year is marked as the National Day of the Maldives. 

The highlights of Qaumee Dhuvas include parades and route marches on the streets of Malé, and on many of the islands.