Society and Lifestyle in MauritiuS
Although it is a small island in the Indian Ocean with an area of only 1865 m2, Mauritius is home to a heterogeneous population with diverse origins. 1.2 million having ancestors of Indian, African, Chinese and European origin, live there, in harmony. It is worthwhile to highlight that the country has experienced different waves of immigration, between colonisation, slavery and indentured labour. Today, in this multicultural melting pot, religious beliefs, traditions and languages mingle in harmony.
The religious landscape of Mauritius is diverse and tolerant. While Hinduism is the most widespread faith with 51.9% of the Mauritian population being Hindus, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism are also practised by a significant portion of the population. As a secular nation, Mauritius adopts freedom of religion as a fundamental right enshrined in the constitution. Interfaith disputes are unheard of, and the people coexist in harmony.
The country engages in several age-old traditions and celebrates its festivals with great enthusiasm. The vast range of festivals reflects the population's famed ethnic diversity. Some of the annual national festivals celebrated include Slavery Abolition Day (February 1), National Day or Independence Day (March 12) and Labour Day (May 1).
The different religious communities of Mauritius celebrate their respective festivals lending a vibrant atmosphere to the island. Hindus celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Ugadi and Maha Shivratri, during which the devotees make a mass pilgrimage to the most sacred Hindu site in Grand Bassin, where a towering statue of Lord Shiva resides beside the Ganga Talao.
Muslims celebrate fasting during the month of Ramadan and Eid. Other Asian festivals such as the Chinese New Year and lantern festival brighten up the night sky and are a spiritual as well as a visual delight. The entire population celebrates major Christian festivals such as Easter, Christmas and New Year and visiting the country during these festivals makes for a fantastic experience.