Hinduism is one of the major religions in Mauritius, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean. The majority of the population in Mauritius practices Hinduism, and it plays a significant role in the cultural and social fabric of the country. Mauritius is regarded as the only country in Africa where Hinduism is the most practiced religion. Percentage wise, Mauritius ranks 3rd in the world as the most practiced Hindu religion after Nepal and India.
Majority of the migrants to Mauritius came primarily from the Indian states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The major languages spoken by Hindus in Mauritius are Creole, Bhojpuri, Tamil and Hindi.
Some key points about Hinduism in Mauritius:
Demographics: Hindus form the largest religious community in Mauritius, making up around 48.5% of the population, according to the 2011 census. The Hindu population is concentrated among the Indo-Mauritian community, which has roots in India.
Cultural Influence: Hinduism has a profound influence on the culture of Mauritius. Many festivals and traditions from Hindu religious practices are celebrated with great enthusiasm and are considered public holidays. Diwali, Holi, Maha Shivaratri, and Navaratri are some of the major Hindu festivals celebrated in Mauritius.
Places of Worship: The island is dotted with numerous Hindu temples, both small and large. One of the most famous is the Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin), a crater lake considered sacred, where an annual pilgrimage takes place during Maha Shivaratri.
Religious Practices: Hindu religious practices, rituals, and ceremonies are followed by the community. Temples serve as focal points for worship, and families often engage in pujas (rituals) at home. Maha Shivaratri, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most significant festivals, drawing thousands of devotees to various temples across the island.
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| Sagar Shiv Mandir in Mauritius |
Cultural Integration: Hinduism in Mauritius has integrated with the multicultural and multi-religious fabric of the nation. There is a spirit of religious tolerance and coexistence among different communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and others.
Language: The majority of the Hindu community in Mauritius speaks Creole, French, and English. However, religious scriptures and prayers are often in Sanskrit or Bhojpuri, reflecting the linguistic diversity among the Indian diaspora.
Educational and Social Contributions: The Hindu community has made significant contributions to the educational and social development of Mauritius. Many prominent figures in various fields, including politics, business, and academia, hail from the Hindu community.
Hinduism in Mauritius reflects a unique blend of traditional practices with adaptations to the local context, contributing to the rich cultural diversity of the nation.
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