In a powerful gesture of cultural and spiritual unity, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed a sacred water immersion ritual at the revered Ganga Talao in Mauritius, blending the holy waters from the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj with the sacred lake.
PM Modi shared the moment on X, stating:
“At the Ganga Talao in Mauritius, I had the honour of immersing water from the Triveni Sangam into the Talao. For millions of Hindus around the world, the Triveni Sangam is of special significance. This year’s Mahakumbh drew pilgrims from all over the world, including Mauritius. May the blessings of Maa Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati always remain upon us!”
Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Bassin, is a volcanic crater lake nestled in the mountainous Savanne district. Recognised as the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage site in the Indian Ocean region, it holds deep cultural and religious significance for the Indo-Mauritian community.
PM Modi said, “It was a very emotional feeling to return to Ganga Talao in Mauritius.”
“Standing by its sacred waters, one could feel the deep spiritual connection that transcends borders, binding generations of people to their roots.”
According to historical accounts, the lake was first identified as a spiritual site in 1887 when a local priest dreamt of its waters originating from the Ganges. Since then, it has become a major pilgrimage destination, especially during Maha Shivratri, when thousands of devotees undertake an arduous trek to offer prayers at the lake.
During his visit, PM Modi paid homage at the temple along the shoreline and performed Aarti, reinforcing the deep-rooted civilizational ties between India and Mauritius. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs described his offering of Gangajal as a symbolic act that underscores the shared devotion and cultural affinity between the two nations.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi attended Mauritius’ National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest, marking his second such invitation since 2015. In a significant diplomatic honour, Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool conferred upon him the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK), the nation’s highest civilian award. PM Modi dedicated the recognition to the enduring friendship between India and Mauritius, as well as to the people of both nations.
As part of the celebrations, an Indian Navy marching contingent participated in the parade, while an Indian Naval Ship made a symbolic Port Call, further cementing the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
PM Modi’s visit to Ganga Talao not only strengthened India’s spiritual and cultural ties with Mauritius but also highlighted the rich legacy of the Indo-Mauritian community, whose ancestors endured hardship as indentured labourers but found solace in their traditions and faith.
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