Ooredoo’s AI Calendar Brings Dhon Hiyala’s Story to Life

Ooredoo Maldives has introduced the latest chapter of its AI-powered folklore calendar, inviting customers to explore the story of Dhon Hiyala in an interactive digital format. The Ooredoo Calendar 2025, launched earlier this year, transforms Maldivian folklore into a monthly experience where users can engage directly with legendary characters through the company’s intelligent chatbot.

Dhon Hiyala, celebrated in Dhivehi literature as a figure of beauty, resilience and tragedy, takes the spotlight this month. The tale follows her life on the island of Buruni, her marriage to Ali Fulhu from Hulhudheli, and the challenges the couple face under the shadow of a jealous King. It remains one of the country’s most recognised stories, passed down through generations.

Through the calendar, customers can chat with an AI version of Dhon Hiyala, explore the themes of the story, and rediscover the cultural heritage woven into Maldivian folklore. The initiative includes 12 characters in total, among them figures from stories such as Foolhudhigu Handi and Safari Kaiydha, each unlocked as the year progresses.

Ooredoo says the calendar is part of its broader effort to support the development of a Digital Maldives by using technology to preserve storytelling traditions. By pairing AI with cultural heritage, the company aims to encourage learning, curiosity and engagement in a format that feels familiar to today’s mobile-first audiences.

Users can access each month’s character through Ooredoo’s AI chatbot and follow the unfolding series of stories throughout 2025. July will spotlight Badi Edhuru, offering another chance for customers to engage with a figure from Maldivian mythology in a contemporary way.