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BUSINESS NEWS - Mauritius is not only famous for its landscapes but also for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. A true melting pot of traditions, the culture of Mauritius is shaped by the influences of Indian, African, Chinese, and European communities.
This unique blend is beautifully reflected in the island’s vibrant festivals, flavourful cuisine, and cherished traditions.
Festivals are a celebration of diversity
Mauritius is home to a variety of religious and cultural festivals, each celebrated with enthusiasm and grandeur. Many of these can be experienced as part of well-timed Mauritius packages.
One of the most important Hindu festivals is Cavadee, observed by the Tamil community. Devotees carry elaborately decorated wooden structures (cavadees) to temples, often piercing their bodies with needles and hooks as an act of penance.
Another important festival is Diwali, the festival of lights, during which homes and streets are adorned with oil lamps, symbolising the victory of light over darkness.
For the Chinese community, Chinese New Year is a joyous occasion marked by lion dances, fireworks, and feasting. Traditional red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money are given to children as a symbol of good luck.
Meanwhile, the Muslim community celebrates Eid-Ul-Fitr with prayers, family gatherings, and a feast of delicious sweets like sweet vermicelli (seviyan).
The Christian community observes Christmas and Easter with great devotion. In December, streets light up with festive decorations, and families gather for traditional Mauritian Christmas meals.
Perhaps the most iconic festival to time alongside booking Mauritius packages is the Thaipoosam Cavadee, where devotees perform extreme acts of devotion, such as walking barefoot on hot embers and carrying heavy cavadees.
Food is a fusion of flavors
Mauritian cuisine is a testament to the island’s multicultural heritage. It is an exquisite blend of Indian, Chinese, Creole, and European influences, resulting in a mouthwatering variety of dishes. One of the island’s most beloved dishes is Dholl Puri, an Indian-inspired flatbread stuffed with ground yellow split peas and typically served with chutney and curry.
Seafood lovers will delight in Octopus Curry, a Creole delicacy made with tender octopus, tomatoes, and a fragrant blend of spices. Another staple is Rougaille, a Creole tomato-based stew often cooked with sausages, fish, or paneer.
Chinese influences shine through dishes like Bol Renversé (literally "upside-down bowl"), a delicious stir-fry of chicken, vegetables, and egg served over rice and flipped onto a plate.
Briyani, an aromatic rice dish introduced by Muslim traders, is another Mauritian favourite, often prepared with lamb or chicken and a blend of saffron, cardamom, and cloves.
For dessert, the island offers a variety of sweet treats, including Napolitaines (buttery shortbread cookies with a layer of jam) and Gulab Jamun, a syrup-soaked Indian sweet.
Traditions create unity in diversity
The traditions of Mauritius emphasise unity and hospitality. Family is at the heart of society, and large family gatherings are common, especially during religious celebrations.
Many Mauritians still practice ancestral customs, such as lighting oil lamps during prayers and performing traditional dances like the Sega, an Afro-Malagasy rhythmic dance performed to the beat of ravanne drums.
Despite their diverse backgrounds, Mauritians live harmoniously, celebrating each other’s traditions and embracing their shared heritage. This cultural fusion makes Mauritius a truly unique and fascinating destination.
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