Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius on Tuesday, March 11. Greeted with the traditional Bihari welcome, Geet Gawal, he was honoured through this cultural performance. Portraying the rich Bhojpuri Heritage, it was tribute to strengthening cultural and historical ties between India and Mauritius.
Upon landing, PM Modi was received by Mauritian PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam at the Sri Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. The Indians residing in Mauritius also arrived in large numbers as they anticipated PM Modi’s arrival expressing their excitement. He was welcomed with other cultural performances including a fusion of Kathak, Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi, classical dance forms of India.
Geet Gawal has been recognised by UNESCO as an ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ in 2016. Receiving an international platform in 2025 brings Bhojpuri tradition in the limelight, serving as a medium of cultural expression of Indian arts.
PM Modi also took to social media and shared on X “Deeply touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in Mauritius. Their strong connection to Indian heritage, culture and values is truly inspiring. This bond of history and heart continues to thrive across generations.”
Special ties with the Island nation are a testament to the 70% concentration of Indians in the entire population of Mauritius. In his 2-day state visit is highlighted by the inauguration of over 20, India-funded projects in Mauritius including the Civil Services College and an Area Health Centre. Furthermore, the PM will also be in attendance of the Mauritius’ National Day celebrations while deliberating on the bi-lateral ties between the nations.
This visit is not only culturally significant but also points towards Mauritius being a close maritime neighbour and a key Indian Ocean partner. Strategic for foreign trade ties and regional cooperation, PM Modi’s visit reinforces India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Mauritius. By promoting cultural diplomacy and launching key development projects, India aims to deepen its economic, strategic, and people-to-people ties with the island nation. This visit marks another step toward fostering regional stability and mutual growth.