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Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a prominent Hindu festival celebrated in Mauritius to honor the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The festival typically falls between late August and early September, based on the lunar calendar.
The tradition of celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi in Mauritius reflects the island’s deep cultural ties with India. Brought over by Indian laborers during the 19th century under British colonial rule, the festival has become an integral part of Mauritian culture. It symbolizes cultural continuity for the Hindu community in Mauritius and reinforces national unity and multiculturalism.
On this auspicious day:
Idol Installation: Families or community groups install clay idols of Lord Ganesha in their homes or public pandals (temporary shrines).
Prayers and Offerings: Devotees perform special prayers called 'pujas' and offer sweets such as 'modaks', considered to be Ganesha's favorite, along with fruits and flowers.
Public Celebrations: Large-scale public events involve elaborately decorated pandals with music, dance performances, and religious ceremonies.
Processions: After a few days (often 10 days), these idols are carried out in processions amidst chanting and singing to be immersed in water bodies, symbolizing Ganesha's return to his heavenly abode while taking away the devotees' misfortunes.
Many devotees fast during the day.
People visit temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha or join community celebrations.
Families get together to enjoy festive meals.
Social gatherings are common where stories about Lord Ganesha are shared.
Environmental awareness has led some worshippers to immerse biodegradable idols rather than traditional plaster-of-paris figures.
Ganesh Chaturthi remains a significant event on Mauritius’ cultural calendar fostering social harmony among its diverse population.
