Highlighting the deep-rooted civilizational and spiritual connection between India and Mauritius, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday offered prayers at the revered Ganga Talao, considered the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage site in the Indian Ocean archipelago. During his visit, he also immersed holy water brought from the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh Mela.
“I was deeply moved to visit the sacred Ganga Talao in Mauritius. The spiritual bond between the two countries can be easily felt along its sacred waters. It transcends borders and connects many of our generations to their roots,” PM Modi posted on X.
Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Basin, is a sacred crater lake located about 550 meters above sea level in the mountainous southwest district of Savanne. The site features a temple along its shoreline, along with small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other Hindu deities.
According to local beliefs, a Hindu priest discovered the lake around 1897. In the 1970s, another priest from India brought sacred water from the Ganges and poured it into the lake, thus naming it ‘Ganga Talao.’ The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the offering as a symbolic gesture of the shared devotion, cultural affinity, and sacred ties between India and Mauritius.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi attended Mauritius’ National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest for the second time, an honor he first received in 2015. “Honored to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius! Wishing the people of Mauritius continued prosperity and success as we also strengthen the deep-rooted ties between our countries,” PM Modi posted on X after the event.
During the celebrations, Dharambeer Gokhool, President of the Republic of Mauritius, conferred the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean’ (GCSK) award on Prime Minister Modi, making him the first Indian leader to receive the nation’s highest civilian honor.
PM Modi dedicated the award to the special friendship between India and Mauritius, as well as to the 1.4 billion people of India and their 1.3 million brothers and sisters in Mauritius.
On Tuesday, the Mauritius government had announced its decision to bestow the prestigious honor upon PM Modi during his ongoing two-day State visit. Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam made the announcement just before PM Modi addressed an Indian community event in Port Louis.
“This honor is very fitting for you, Prime Minister. Since we became a republic, only five foreign dignitaries have received this title, and among them is a man we call the ‘Gandhi of Africa’ – Nelson Mandela, who received it in 1998. Let me tell you, we are greatly honored to have you here today and appreciate that you took time out of your very, very busy schedule,” said Ramgoolam, drawing huge applause.
PM Modi’s recognition in Mauritius marks the 21st international award conferred upon him by a foreign country.
As part of the National Day celebrations, an Indian Navy marching contingent participated in the parade, while an Indian Naval Ship made a Port Call to coincide with the event, further symbolizing the enduring partnership between the two nations.
