Menu:
Mauritius: People and Culture
Introduction
The small island nation of Mauritius exhibits a world of ethnicity, culture, tradition and language which makes it culturally the richest island in Indian Ocean. This diversity is due to Mauritius' historical interaction with different countries that ruled over it in different periods. The country also owes this exotic diversity to large number of Indian laborers who were brought here under the British rule and which today make majority of Mauritius population.
People
People of different religions and ethnic background make up the population of Mauritius. Indo-Mauritian form 67 % of the population, Creoles 27 % and others rest. Majority of people (53 %) are Hindus, while Christians, Buddhists and Muslims comprise the rest of population.
This miscellaneous background of Mauritius has evolved a tradition of harmony, friendliness and peaceful existence. Mauritians are among most friendly people of world, with deep respect for every culture and religion.
People are generally scrupulous, scandals are rare and corruption and other vices are largely absent from the country. Mauritians take great pride in their worldwide esteem of being a good natured, amiable and friendly people.
Culture
Mauritius is remarkable for its religious and cultural tolerance. On the social and political levels, all religions are treated alike and government gives patronage to Temples, Church, Mosques and all the places of worship.
This island nation is culturally beautifully colored and all have blended together to form the tradition of harmonious separatism. Different cultures are not secluded however. The centuries of living together has brought them closer and tied them with a common string.
Festivals are numerous in Mauritius and rejoiced by all. Indian festivals, like Dipawali, Dussehra, Holi, and Janmashtmi are big festive occasions. But Christmas and Id and many other festivals are also celebrated.
Dance, Music and Art are integral to the Mauritian culture. Close ties with Africa has given Mauritian dance and music high rhythm, exuberance and revelry. The music is equally lively and paced. Sega is the most popular dance and Bobre is the main form of music in Mauritius.