Zara Mujthaba – Music and Tourism in the Maldives

In the second episode of Norient’s podcast Long Take: Life as an Artist, Maldivian singer, producer, and artist Zara Mujthaba shares insights into her musical journey and life on Thulusdhoo island, her involvement with the influential Maldivian collective Dinba Family, and her perspective on the evolving tourism industry in the Maldives. She remains hopeful for the future of music in the Maldives and sees potential in the younger generation of artists. As one of the first independent female artists in the Maldives, Zara Mujthaba, has paved the way for others, releasing groundbreaking solo albums that have attracted attention for both their musical quality and their thematic focus on life and social issues. Her dynamic performances blend Soul, Blues, Jazz, Rock, and R&B and can be experienced in some of the Maldives’ most exclusive tourist resorts. Beyond performing, Zara shares her expertise by teaching children at the Maldives Music and Arts Centre, nurturing the next wave of local talent. She expanded her influence in Maldivian music by joining the judging panel for Maldivian Idol in its third season, where her mentorship has had a lasting impact on emerging artists. #LongTake #podcast #interview #Norient #Anthropology #ZaraMujthaba #DinbaFamily #Maldives #Thulushdoo #tourism