PM Modi's Mauritius Connection: A 27-Year-Old Bond
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Mauritius in 2025 has once again highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between the two nations. However, it was in 1998 that a young Narendra Modi, then a BJP leader, visited Mauritius and made a lasting impression, particularly through his participation in the prestigious Ramayana Conference and his visit to Ganga Talao (Sacred Lake).
PM Modi at the Ramayana Conference in 1998
The Ramayana Conference held in Mauritius in 1998 was a major cultural and spiritual event that celebrated the teachings of the Hindu epic, which holds immense significance for the Indian diaspora in the island nation. At the time, Narendra Modi was actively engaged in party affairs and ideological discussions, and his presence at the conference marked an important step in fostering deeper spiritual and cultural ties between India and Mauritius.
During the conference, Modi delivered a powerful speech on the relevance of the Ramayana in contemporary times. His address resonated deeply with the Indian-origin population in Mauritius, many of whom trace their ancestry back to India. His emphasis on values such as dharma (duty), unity, and resilience left a lasting impact on the audience, further strengthening the emotional and spiritual bonds between the two nations.
Visit to Ganga Talao: A Sacred Pilgrimage
As part of his 1998 visit, Narendra Modi also visited Ganga Talao, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites outside India. Also known as the Sacred Lake, it holds immense religious significance for Hindus in Mauritius, symbolizing the deep cultural and spiritual connections with the Ganges River in India.
Modi’s visit to Ganga Talao was marked by his deep reverence and spiritual connect. He performed rituals at the site, participated in prayers, and interacted with the local Hindu community. His visit was seen as a gesture of respect towards the Indian diaspora and their commitment to preserving their religious heritage in Mauritius. This moment reinforced the shared spiritual traditions between the two nations and highlighted India’s role as a cultural guardian for the global Indian community.
Strengthening India-Mauritius Relations Through Culture
Modi’s 1998 visit laid the groundwork for stronger diplomatic and cultural relations between India and Mauritius. Over the years, his leadership has further deepened these ties, with India playing a crucial role in Mauritius’ infrastructural, economic, and defense development. The 1998 visit was a precursor to his later policies promoting India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ initiative and outreach to the global Indian diaspora.
PM Modi’s Legacy in Mauritius
Narendra Modi’s early engagement with Mauritius in 1998 continues to influence India’s diplomatic and cultural outreach to the island nation.
His participation in the Ramayana Conference and visit to Ganga Talao were not just ceremonial but symbolic of the enduring civilizational ties between India and Mauritius. Today, as he strengthens bilateral relations with his 2025 visit, his previous interactions serve as a testament to his long-standing commitment to the Indian diaspora and global Hindu heritage.
PM Modi’s 1998 visit to Mauritius remains a milestone in India-Mauritius relations. From addressing the Ramayana Conference to paying homage at Ganga Talao, his visit underscored India’s deep-rooted cultural and spiritual influence in the island nation. As India continues to reinforce its strategic partnership with Mauritius, the foundations laid by such historical moments continue to shape the present and future of bilateral relations.
