Synopsis
During PM Modi's two-day visit to Mauritius, large crowds gathered to witness his journey to Ganga Talao, highlighting the strong ties between India and Mauritius. The Prime Minister offered prayers at this sacred site, reflecting on the spiritual connections shared by the two nations.Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit to Mauritius emphasizes India-Mauritius ties.
- Ganga Talao is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
- Local traditions and performances celebrated during the visit.
- Community pride among the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
- Historical connections between the two cultures highlighted.
Port Louis, March 13 (NationPress) While it is common to see throngs of supporters in India welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the scenes in Mauritius during his recent two-day visit underscored the profound connection between these two nations.
People lined the streets for miles as PM Modi made his way to Ganga Talao, the most revered Hindu pilgrimage site in the Indian Ocean nation, eager to catch a glimpse of the leader.
Waving both the Mauritian flag and the Indian Tricolour, individuals gathered on either side of the road, excitedly anticipating the Prime Minister's arrival. Many raised their smartphones to document this memorable event as PM Modi journeyed towards the sacred destination.
Upon arriving at Ganga Talao, PM Modi offered prayers and poured holy water he had brought from the Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.
The crowd surged forward, eager to share the moment, as PM Modi acknowledged their presence with a wave, further igniting the excitement among the gathering.
"Visiting the sacred Ganga Talao in Mauritius has touched me deeply. The spiritual connection between our nations is palpable along its sacred waters. It transcends borders and links many generations to their heritage," he expressed on X, reflecting on the strong cultural ties between India and Mauritius.
Ganga Talao, also referred to as Grand Basin, is a crater lake located approximately 550 meters above sea level in the mountainous southwest district of Savanne. This site features a temple and various small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other Hindu deities.
Local lore states that a Hindu priest discovered this site in 1897, and in the 1970s, another priest from India brought sacred water from the Ganga River, pouring it into the lake and naming it 'Ganga Talao.'
Mauritius, where the majority of citizens trace their lineage back to India, is home to a significant Indian diaspora, particularly from Bihar.
Speaking at a community event in Port Louis, PM Modi emphasized these enduring connections, stating, "Our ancestors were brought here from various parts of India. The diversity in language, dialects, and culinary practices makes this place a true representation of a mini-Hindustan, a small India!"
His arrival in Port Louis was celebrated with a vibrant performance of 'Geet Gawai', a traditional Bhojpuri musical ensemble. Rooted in the Bhojpuri-speaking regions of India, this musical tradition holds great cultural significance for the Indian-origin community in Mauritius. Generally performed by women, it remains a vital aspect of the country’s heritage.
As PM Modi stepped onto Mauritian soil, the thrill among the Indian diaspora was evident. For many, this visit symbolized pride and reinforced the enduring historical, cultural, and emotional bonds between India and Mauritius.
