Grand Bassin Hindu Temple: The Spiritual Center for Hindus in Mauritius
Mauritius, known for its idyllic beaches and beautiful nature, is home to one of the most important Hindu communities outside India. Hinduism was brought to the island by Indians in the 19th century, who were brought as indentured laborers to work on sugar plantations after the abolition of slavery. These first Hindus brought with them their traditions, customs, and religious rituals, which remain vibrant in Mauritius to this day. Today, Hindus make up about half of the population of Mauritius, making the island one of the few places outside the Indian subcontinent where Hinduism is the dominant religion. The community is also very diverse, consisting of various ethnic groups, including Bihari, Marathi, Tamils, and Telugus. The Hindu calendar in Mauritius is filled with religious festivals and ceremonies. The most significant of these is the Maha Shivaratri festival, considered the "largest Hindu festival outside India." During this time, thousands of pilgrims gather at the ...