Kalhu Vakaru Mosque & Park Closed for Kalhuohfummi Setup

The park next to Kalhu Vakaru Mosque and the mosque itself will undergo a temporary closure to facilitate the installation of Kalhuohfummi within the mosque's vicinity.

A statement from the Centre for Conservation of Cultural Heritage confirmed that the closure will commence tomorrow for essential work in both Kalhu Vakaru Mosque and the park area. Once the installation is complete, the park is scheduled to reopen to the public next month, as stated in the notification.

The Ministry of Language, Culture, and Heritage announced on Monday that the process of bringing Kalhuohfummi to the capital has been initiated.

Kalhuohfummi, a vessel constructed by Utheemu Maharadhun (three brothers of Utheemu, from whom later a Sultan was appointed) in 1558 to liberate the Maldives from Portuguese slavery after the martyrdom of Sultan Ali VI (King Ali), will be represented by a replica. This replica is being transported to the location of Kalhu Vakaru Mosque.

Kalhu Vakaru Mosque was initially commissioned by Sultan Shamsuddeen 11 in the 18th century, and has since been relocated several times, earning the name "The Travelling Mosque".

The replication process of Kalhuohfummi was initiated in 2015 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the country's independence.

Crafted based on the findings of a technical team's examination of historical information related to Utheemu Maharadhun's national struggle and sacrifice, the replica of the vessel spans 51 feet in length.

Launched into the sea on December 2, 2015, the vessel was subsequently docked at Aarah following the Independence 50 celebrations.

As per the ministry's announcement, Kalhuohfummi will be transported to Malé city, accompanied by information detailing Utheemu Maharadhun's or Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-Auzam's freedom struggle.

After evaluating three potential locations for placing the replica, it has been decided that Kalhu Vakaru Mosque will be its home, with the work to be executed in various phases. This involves securing resources for the vessel's restoration and ensuring its return to the capital, the ministry outlined.

The Ministry of Language, Culture, and Heritage disclosed that a collaborative effort among the ministry and several government agencies will be undertaken to transport Kalhuohfummi. A special ceremony is planned for the vessel's arrival, marking its public unveiling after the necessary repair work has been completed.