Aleem, who began painting as a child, returned to his artistic practice during the COVID-19 pandemic after a career in the Maldives Police Service, the Maldives National Defence Force, and Treetop Hospital. “This exhibition didn’t start as drawings; it began as visualisations of a world I was building in my mind,” he explains. “When writing my book, I imagined the scenes first, then gave them color and life.”

The exhibition centers on the Portuguese occupation of the Maldives in the 16th century and the nation’s struggle for liberation, exploring maritime life, political upheaval, and acts of resistance. At its core is the legendary figure of Boduthakurufaanu, alongside lesser-known figures such as the Portuguese garrison leader Andreas Andre, locally called Andhiri Andhirin. Aleem’s work highlights not just famous stories but also the untold narratives, giving depth and nuance to a period often referenced only superficially.

Research for the exhibition and accompanying five-part book series, The Tides of Chaos, proved particularly demanding. Local records are limited or diluted, prompting Aleem to consult international archives in Lisbon and contacts at the Goa Maritime Institute to gather new perspectives. “I was able to access information different from what Maldivian historians have recorded, some of which is controversial,” he says. Concerned about potential backlash, he published the first book in the series on Amazon. The novel serves as a prelude to darkness, tracing the origins of andhiri andhirin, with subsequent volumes exploring betrayal, political intrigue, and the legendary rise of Boduthakurufaanu, drawing parallels to the complex narratives of Game of Thrones.

Aleem’s goal is to inspire the younger generation to engage with Maldivian history in a fresh and captivating way. “Most young people don’t know these stories,” he says. “This exhibition is a visual gateway into history, encouraging them to explore and preserve these chapters for future generations.” He plans to expand the project into a digital comic series based on the five-part saga, combining storytelling and art to appeal to youth and make history accessible.

With a strong narrative sense, Aleem treats history as a living story rather than a distant record. The exhibition allows viewers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the time, visualizing the struggles and resilience of the Maldivian people. By blending rigorous research, creative storytelling, and vibrant artistry, Echoes of the Tides offers a window into a complex past and ensures that these important chapters of Maldivian history continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.

Running until December 31, the exhibition is both a reflection on cultural memory and an invitation to imagine history in a new, visually compelling way. “Visualize how it would have been back then,” Aleem urges. “These are some of the darkest chapters in the Maldives, and it’s vital to understand what our forefathers went through.”