PM Modi Receives Traditional Bihari 'Geet Gawai' Welcome in Mauritius

Synopsis
On March 11, PM Modi was warmly welcomed in Mauritius with a traditional Bhojpuri musical performance, 'Geet Gawai', marking the start of his significant two-day visit to strengthen India-Mauritius ties.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi’s visit aims to enhance India-Mauritius relations.
- 'Geet Gawai' performance highlights cultural connections.
- Indian diaspora plays a vital role in Mauritius' cultural landscape.
- PM Modi will attend National Day celebrations as Chief Guest.
- Focus on development, security, and people-to-people ties.
Port Louis, March 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with a warm reception in Mauritius on Tuesday morning as he commenced a pivotal two-day visit aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between India and the island nation.
A standout feature of the welcome was a lively rendition of 'Geet Gawai', a traditional Bhojpuri musical performance, which infused a distinctive cultural flavor into his arrival.
Geet Gawai, originating from the Bhojpuri region of India, holds immense cultural significance for the Indian community in Mauritius. This music, traditionally performed by women, is a vital aspect of the cultural identity of the Indian-origin populace in Mauritius, who share deep-rooted ties with India.
This treasured musical heritage was acknowledged by UNESCO in December 2016, when it was added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reinforcing its cultural relevance.
Upon his arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome from his Mauritian counterpart, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam.
“I am deeply moved by the warm reception from the Indian community in Mauritius. Their profound connection to Indian heritage, culture, and values is genuinely inspiring. This bond of history and heart continues to flourish across generations,” PM Modi expressed in a post on X.
The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as members of the Indian diaspora, many of whom trace their ancestry back to the Bhojpuri-speaking areas of India, welcomed the Prime Minister with heartfelt warmth.
After his arrival, PM Modi proceeded to the Oberoi Hotel in Port Louis, where he was once again greeted by eager members of the Indian community, looking forward to engaging with their beloved leader.
The Indian diaspora in Mauritius has been a crucial component of the nation’s social and cultural framework, and their gracious reception of PM Modi showcased the lasting ties between India and Mauritius.
PM Modi is set to participate in Mauritius’ National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest on March 12, following an invitation from Prime Minister Ramgoolam.
This visit is anticipated to further solidify the bilateral relationship, particularly in the realms of development, maritime security, and connections between the peoples of both nations.