| div align="center"> | | | | force of the Portuguese who had been trying in vain |
| Maldives is perhaps one of the most idyllic holiday | | | | to control the islands for close to 15 years. The young |
| makerâs paradisesâ offering sun, | | | | Mohammed led a group of freedom fighters, who killed |
| beach and wonderful marine life. The 1190 odd little | | | | the Portuguese Governor, when the Portuguese had |
| coral islands that form this republic were rich in | | | | planned a mass execution of all the island inhabitants |
| expensive luxuries such as cowry shells (used as | | | | who refused to convert to Christianity. This young hero |
| currency) spices, fish etc, thus inviting travellers and | | | | became the Sultan thereafter, and enjoyed 12 years |
| traders from across the world. | | | | of peace and prosperity as never before. His dynasty, |
| Originally a Buddhist country, the influence of the Arab | | | | the Utheemu Dynasty reigned for 127 years after him |
| traders is clearly seen in the conversion to Islam. Many | | | | with 12 rulers. |
| traders and travellers frequented the Maldives in | | | | His palace on the island of Utheem still stands today |
| pursuit of its bountiful splendour. However the | | | | â with much the same design though certain |
| Portuguese in their quest to control all the key trading | | | | modifications have been made - as a proud testimony |
| areas in the world, especially the East Indies, made a | | | | to this courageous young rulersâ fight for |
| sweeping manoeuvre over the then Sultan Ali IV. | | | | independence from colonial rulers. This historic |
| Born during this time was one of Maldivesâ | | | | landmark is a must see in your Maldives travel. If the |
| most famous and well loved heroes of all times, of | | | | holiday maker is looking for a tranquil and relaxing stay |
| whom songs and stories are still told â | | | | in some Maldives hotels, then the John Keells Hotels |
| Mohammed Thakurufaan. Born on the island of | | | | Group offers the visitor everything they may need |
| Utheem (5 km from the Cinnamon island Alidhoo), he | | | | from any one of the hotels located among the group |
| was responsible for wiping out the entire occupying | | | | of islands. |