Local dance group Hiyala has threatened to sue Television Maldives (TVM) over its decision to broadcast their viral Eid song ‘Boamathivanee’, a decision the group said was made without their consent.
Hiyala released its song ‘Eid Boamathivanee’, which loosely translates to ‘Eid is approaching’, on June 5 – the first day of Eid al-Adha.
Signifying the approaching celebration of Eid, a time of joy and togetherness, the song takes viewers on a visually stunning journey of rural life in the Maldives in the 90s.
The song - a celebration of love, longing, and the enduring spirit of Maldivian culture - quickly got viral, with over 86,000 views of Hiyala’s official YouTube channel.
Promotional poster for Hiyala's 'Eid Boamathi Vanee'. (Photo/Hiyala)
TVM, one of the channels run by Public Service Media (PSM), recently broadcasted the song on one of its Eid continuity shows, with the hosts claiming the song to be a “gift” received by the TV channel.
But in a statement via its Facebook page on Sunday, Hiyala said they were “deeply concerned and disappointed” by TVM’s decision to broadcast their Eid song “Boamathivanee” without their consent.
“At no point have we granted permission to TVM—or any channel—to air or distribute this work. This unauthorized use is not only a breach of our rights but also a display of unprofessional conduct,” said the group.
Hiyala said they take the matter very seriously and are currently exploring legal options to address the violation.
Hiyala’s ‘Boamathivanee’ is inspired by The Longing of a Wife, a heartfelt story by writer, Teddy.
It tells the poignant tale of a wife, Kanba, who has spent five long years waiting for her husband to return home. On the eve of Eid, the yearning in her heart is overwhelming. The story captures her deep emotions—her longing for her husband, the strength of her love, and the pain she feels seeing others living the life she had once imagined with her own family, in a powerful portrayal of the vulnerability and hope of a woman waiting for a reunion that may never come.
Hiyala said the song doesn’t just tell a tale of sorrow—it also paints a picture of the joy and unity that come with Eid celebrations.
Promotional poster for Hiyala's 'Eid Boamathi Vanee'. (Photo/Hiyala)
The song captures the essence of Maldivian traditions, the excitement of preparation, and the sense of community that made Eid such a special occasion for all.
Hiyala describes the song as not only a tribute to the past but a heartfelt reminder of the emotions and connections that define people.
PSM was not immediately available for comment regarding the allegation it breached Hiyala’s rights with the broadcast of the song on its TV channel.