Talk to Rannamaari This September Through Ooredoo’s AI Chatbot

Ooredoo Maldives has unveiled Rannamaari, one of the most feared figures in Maldivian folklore, as the featured character for September in its innovative Ooredoo Calendar 2025. Customers can now interact with the legendary sea demon through Ooredoo’s AI-powered chatbot, blending centuries-old tales with cutting-edge technology.

The Rannamaari story is among the most haunting legends in Maldivian history. For generations, islanders believed that once every month, an evil sea demon rose from the sea in the form of a glowing vessel. To appease it, villagers would sacrifice a young girl. This cycle of fear ended with the arrival of a Moroccan scholar, Abul Barakat al-Barbari, who recited verses from the Holy Qur’an throughout the night in place of the girl. According to folklore, the Rannamaari fled into the sea and never returned.

Launched earlier this year, Ooredoo Calendar 2025 reimagines 12 iconic characters from Dhivehi folklore using artificial intelligence. Each month, a new character is brought to life through the digital platform, allowing people to ask questions, share stories, and immerse themselves in the world of these legends.

Ooredoo said the project is aimed at preserving Maldivian folklore and reigniting public interest by presenting stories in a modern and interactive way. “This is a journey where ancient stories meet the latest technology, ensuring that our rich cultural heritage is passed on to future generations,” the company said in a statement.