Voice of Commonwealth

Celebrating Mauritius

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As today dawns Africa’s most beautiful little island Mauritius celebrates its independence. On March 12th 1968 Mauritius, under the leadership of what it calls the father of the nation and first Prime Minister, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, achieved independence from British imperialism. Later on March 12, 1992, exactly 24 years later, Mauritius transformed into a republic country with the British Commonwealth.

This date is a national holiday and is celebrated every year by the people of Mauritius. The nationals demonstrate their pride in their nation by displaying colorful flags across the country. An official flag-raising ceremony also takes place in the capital city with military parades and live music. The national flag, consisting of four-color strips, also represents the pluralist society based on the co-existence and diversity of the population.

Mauritius is a unique country on the world map which is geographically considered an African country but it has a special affiliation with the people of South Asia socio-culturally. Urdu is spoken and understood throughout the island of Mauritius. The majority of the population, consisting of 55 percent, follows Hinduism whereas other prominent religions include Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and others.

At the time of its discovery by Arab traders in the 9th century, there was nothing but dense forests and wildlife. Due to its unique geo-strategic position, it also became a target of Western imperialist powers from Portugal, France and the Dutch East India Company, during the colonial period. Under British rule, many people from present-day Pakistan and South Asia immigrated to Mauritius. In the early 20th century, Mahatma Gandhi also paid a historic visit to Mauritius. During his two-week visit, he urged the people of Mauritius to transcend all kinds of prejudices and focus on educating their children.

Mauritius, most favorite destination of world tourists, is also known as an island of temples, mosques and churches. Ganga Talao, a crater lake situated in a secluded mountain area, is considered the most sacred holy place in the eyes of the Hindu community. There are different temples located on the bank of the lake and are dedicated to lords Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesh and goddess Ganga. On the occasion of the religious festival Shivaratri, many local pilgrims travel bare feet from their homes to the lake. The first mosque, now officially known as the Al-Aqsa Mosque, was built in the early years of the 1800s. The Jummah Mosque in the capital city Port Louis was built in the 1850s and is described as one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Mauritius. The tomb of Jamal Shah, a Sufi saint from the Indian subcontinent, is also located next to the mosque. There are also many churches and other worship places across the island.

No doubt, every sovereign country has to offer countless sacrifices in order to achieve independence. However, after independence only those countries succeeded to establish internal peaceful societies and earn good name at international level, which follow the vision of their founding fathers in letter and spirit. In my view, today’s Mauritius, which in the past was influenced by different global powers, is one of best examples about social harmony, religious tolerance and prosperity. The Republic of Mauritius constitutionally grants equal civic rights and religious freedom to all citizens. On the occasions of Eid, Diwali, Christmas and other holy festivals, public holidays are observed throughout the country

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