Learning a new language can be a transformative experience, opening doors to new cultures, improving job prospects, and enhancing cognitive abilities. For Maldivians, the reasons to learn a new language are as varied as the languages themselves. With an array of resources available today, from online courses to language exchange programs, it’s easier than ever to embark on this journey. Whether for economic reasons, connecting with family heritage, traveling, or simply for the love of learning, every reason to learn a new language is valid. If you are a Maldivian who has been thinking about learning another language, this post might give you some ideas of where to start.

1. Dhivehi (and all its dialects)

This might seem a bit strange to include, but I think it would be really eye-opening for a lot of Maldivians to study their own language. Yes, they would already have an intuitive understanding of it, but learning it from an outside perspective would give them a new way of appreciating their language, culture and history.

In terms of dialects, learning a non-standard variety of Dhivehi would give Maldivians an appreciation of just how much diversity exists within the Dhivehi language and how the local culture varies throughout the islands. (As an example, some of the southern dialects have gendered pronouns, which I think is wild.) This lends itself to a more culturally aware sort of domestic tourism and greater empathy for people living in different parts of the country.

2. Arabic

As the liturgical language of Islam, Arabic holds a special place for Maldivians, who are predominantly Muslim (but not 100%…I can’t believe that people still cling to this idea). Learning Arabic can deepen their understanding of religious texts, including the Quran, and enhance their connection to their faith. Moreover, Arabic is widely spoken across the Middle East and North Africa, opening up numerous employment and travel opportunities. Given that Arabic has influenced Dhivehi, many Maldivians already possess a foundational understanding, making it a logical step to further their proficiency.

3. Sanskrit

Sanskrit is the parent language of Dhivehi and learning it can provide Maldivians with a greater appreciation of their linguistic heritage. It offers insights into the structure and grammar of Dhivehi, fostering a deeper understanding of their own language. Additionally, Sanskrit boasts a vast array of classical literature and philosophical texts, enriching one’s cultural and intellectual knowledge. Sanskrit is also a great steeping stone to other Indian languages.

4. Sinhalese

Many Maldivians travel to Sri Lanka for holidays, work, or medical care, making Sinhalese a practical language to learn. The close relationship between Dhivehi and Sinhalese, especially in the southern dialects, makes it relatively easy for Maldivians to pick up. Learning Sinhalese can enhance communication with their closest neighbors and deepen cross-cultural connections.

5. Malayalam

Like Sinhalese, Malayalam is beneficial for Maldivians due to the close ties with Kerala, India. Many Maldivians visit Kerala for similar reasons, and knowing Malayalam can facilitate smoother interactions and experiences. This language opens up a gateway to understanding a region rich in culture and tradition. Additionally, Malayalam is very similar to Dhivehi in terms of its grammar, which would make for a simpler learning curve.

6. Hindi

Hindi is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and serves as a lingua franca across South Asia. Bollywood movies are immensely popular in the Maldives, and many Maldivians already have some exposure to Hindi. Learning Hindi can therefore enhance their enjoyment of Indian media and culture. Additionally, Hindi shares similarities with Urdu, providing the added benefit of understanding another significant South Asian language. Both languages offer rich literary and poetic traditions to explore.

7. Bengali

With a significant number of Bangladeshi workers in the Maldives and many Maldivians studying in Bangladesh, Bengali is a practical choice. It facilitates better communication and fosters mutual understanding. Bengali also has a rich literary tradition, offering an entry point into a world of beautiful poetry and prose.

8. Tamil

Tamil is another language that strengthens regional connections. It is one of the oldest continuously spoken languages and has a vast array of literature and philosophical works. I find it crazy that Maldives is geographically so close to such an amazing cultural sphere, yet so far away in terms of the knowledge of this sphere. Learning Tamil would allow Maldivians to appreciate the rich cultural and intellectual heritage of their nearby neighbours.

9. German

German is a valuable language to learn due to the high number of German tourists visiting the Maldives. It can enhance job prospects in the tourism industry and facilitate better service and communication with visitors, thereby enriching the tourism experience.

10. Italian

Similarly, Italian is useful for those working in the tourism sector, as the Maldives attracts many Italian tourists. Knowing Italian can improve hospitality services and create more meaningful interactions with guests, potentially boosting tourism and business opportunities.

11. Russian

With an increasing number of Russian tourists visiting the Maldives and a growing interest among Maldivians to travel to Russia and Belarus, learning Russian can be quite advantageous. It opens up new cultural experiences and enhances travel and business opportunities.

12. Mandarin

China is a major source of tourists for the Maldives, and Mandarin is one of the most spoken languages in the world. Learning Mandarin can significantly improve communication and service in the tourism sector. It also presents economic opportunities, given China’s significant global influence.

Conclusion

Learning a new language can be an enriching experience that goes beyond practical benefits. It can connect you with different cultures, enhance your cognitive abilities, and open up new worlds of literature, music, and cinema. Whether you choose one of the languages listed here or any other, the journey of language learning is rewarding and full of possibilities. So, why not start today?