PM Modi Receives Traditional Bihari Welcome in Mauritius, Deeply Touched by Indian Diaspora
Grand Reception at Mauritius Port
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was given a heartfelt welcome by the Indian community upon his arrival in Mauritius on Tuesday. The highlight of the reception was the Geet Gawai, a traditional Bhojpuri cultural performance by women of Indian descent, showcasing the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Mauritius. Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi said he was “deeply touched” by the warm reception and the efforts of the Indian diaspora in keeping the cultural heritage alive.
Significance of Geet Gawai and Bhojpuri Culture in Mauritius
Geet Gawai is a folk tradition from the Bhojpuri belt of India, performed during auspicious occasions like weddings. The tradition was brought to Mauritius by indentured laborers from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in the 19th century. Today, it remains a symbol of the shared cultural heritage between India and Mauritius, uniting the Indian diaspora with their ancestral roots. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla described it as “a traditional Bhojpuri musical ensemble that embodies the rich cultural heritage brought to Mauritius.”
PM Modi’s Key Engagements in Mauritius
During his visit, PM Modi is scheduled to meet Mauritius President Dharam Gokhool and Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth. High on the agenda are discussions on bilateral trade, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange programs. Modi will also address a community gathering, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening its bond with Mauritius and supporting the vibrant Indian diaspora there.
India-Mauritius Relations: A Strong Historical Bond
India and Mauritius share a long-standing friendship, with strong economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties. Mauritius has a significant population of Indian-origin citizens, making it a key partner in India’s outreach to the Indian Ocean region. India has played a crucial role in Mauritius’ development, providing financial aid, technological assistance, and defense support over the years.
Recently, India has also been involved in several infrastructure projects in Mauritius, including metro rail development and digital connectivity initiatives. PM Modi’s visit is expected to further enhance cooperation in these areas.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Trade Relations
Mauritius is a vital part of India’s Indian Ocean strategy, given its strategic location and economic ties with India. The two nations have signed multiple agreements over the years, fostering growth in trade, education, healthcare, and technology.
With this visit, India aims to bolster its relations with Mauritius by:
- Expanding trade agreements
- Enhancing people-to-people connections
- Strengthening defense and security collaborations
- Encouraging educational and cultural exchanges
Conclusion: A Cultural and Diplomatic Milestone
PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius is not only a diplomatic mission but also a testament to the strong cultural and emotional ties between the two nations. The Indian diaspora’s warm reception through Geet Gawai signifies their deep connection with their roots and India’s continued influence in Mauritius. As both nations continue to work together on mutual growth and development, this visit is expected to further strengthen their historical bond.
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