CITY ESCAPE
~ The certificate received after crossing the equator~ ~ Arachchilage Dineshindikakgpv ~
I
n centuries past, sailors would celebrate the crossing of the equator with elaborate ceremony. Maldivian is continuing the tradition of marking the transition between hemispheres - all passengers flying to Gan International Airport with a Maldivian domestic flight will receive a personalized Equator Crossing Certificate from the Captain. The ceremony of Crossing the Line is a centuries-old ritual that commemorates a sailor’s first crossing of the equator. Sailors would have to prove their worthiness in front of the character of King Neptune. Ceremonies often made the initiates go through a series of embarrassing ordeals. The ceremonies are still performed today in various navies and sail training ships and the occasion is marked on civilian ocean liners too, though with less emphasis on humiliating
66
Maldivian Holidays
Issue 03
the initiates. Given its long history, the ritual has changed over the years, but it remains a well-known linchpin of naval culture. However, as air traffic increased the act of crossing the equator lost its charm, although in the 1940’s some airlines issued elaborate certificates commemorating the crossing. Maldivian hopes to continue this ancient tradition by giving out the Equator Crossing Certificates. The equator lies between Fuvahmulah and Gaafu Dhaalu, and passengers will be able to remember the breath-taking aerial view of the endless islands. Words by: Ahmed Ijaz
Published by MVHOTELS