Close your eyes and imagine the gentle caress of the Indian Ocean breeze, the rhythmic murmur of waves lapping against pristine beaches, and the vibrant aroma of incense filling the air. Now, picture yourself standing before a majestic temple, its intricate carvings bathed in the golden light of dawn. This isn't just a tropical paradise you're conjuring; this is the soul of Mauritian Hinduism, a vibrant tapestry waiting to be unravelled in Africa.
From Indentured Labor to a Flourishing Dharma Yatra:
The story doesn't begin on sun-drenched shores but amidst the tumultuous seas of the 19th century. Following the abolition of slavery, British authorities in Mauritius faced a labour shortage. Their solution? Hundreds of thousands of indentured labourers, primarily from regions steeped in strong Hindu traditions, embarked on a challenging journey across the "kala pani" (black waters).
The crossing of the sea, which was considered taboo for many Hindu castes, led to social exclusion upon return.
The transportation of convicts (primarily soldiers sentenced to life for rebelling against the British) during 'Kala Pani' involved long and arduous journeys by sea, often in cramped and unsanitary conditions. Many inmates succumbed to disease, malnutrition, and harsh weather during the voyage. Upon arrival, they faced a brutal and unforgiving environment.
Bissoondoyal, in "The Truth About Mauritius," argues that some Indians were sent to Mauritius because they were punished for their religious beliefs, as they were refusing to compromise their faith under British pressure. He further states that these individuals, far from being societal burdens, became valuable community members, earning praise for their contributions.
Charles Darwin wrote upon his first sighting of the men in Mauritius: "Before seeing these people, I had no idea that the inhabitants of India were such noble-looking men; their skin is extremely dark, and many of the older men had large moustachios and beards of a snow-white colour; this, together with the fire of their expressions, gave to them an aspect quite imposing."
While their initial conditions were harsh, these resilient individuals clung to their Dharma. They built makeshift temples, later replaced by grand structures like the intricate Kailashnath, preserving their traditions and fostering community. This dedication laid the foundation for the vibrant Hindu community we see today and contributed to the spread of Hinduism in other African nations like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Standing Out in the African Landscape:
While Hinduism has a presence across Africa, it's important to note the stark contrast in scale. In Mauritius, nearly half the population (48.54%) identifies as Hindu, a staggering number compared to the continent's average of around 2%. This unique concentration can be attributed to several key factors:
Sustained Immigration: Unlike other African nations where the spread of Hinduism happened primarily through trade or missionary work, Mauritius saw a large-scale and sustained migration of Hindus. This continuous influx helped maintain and strengthen the faith's presence.
Preserving Traditions: Facing a new land and culture, Mauritian Hindus held onto their traditions with unwavering commitment. They built temples, practised rituals, and celebrated festivals, solidifying a foundation for future generations.
Religious Freedom: The Mauritian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, creating a tolerant and inclusive environment where Hinduism could flourish alongside other faiths.
Intergenerational Transmission: Faith has been passed down through generations, ensuring its continued significance within the community. Parents instil Hindu values and practices in their children, ensuring the legacy endures.
Is Mauritius A Safe Home for Hinduism?
Mauritian Hinduism reflects the rich heritage of the indentured labour diaspora that finds roots in Tamil and Bhojpuri ancestral lands. These migrants preserve their traditions in their temples, festivals and rituals.
However, there have been incidents of attacks on temples in Mauritius. In October 2023, nine temples dedicated to the Goddess Kali were desecrated across the island during Navratri. This involved animal parts and oil hurled on temple premises, sparking outrage from the Hindu community.
In May 2023, the Tookay Temple was vandalised. This incident was caught on camera, and both perpetrators were released on bail after one month.
Between 2020 and 2021,  many temples in the southern region, including the Chamouny temple, were vandalised within the same week. There have been other reported incidents of vandalism and disrespect towards Hindu temples in Mauritius over the years.
Conclusion
The story of Hinduism in Mauritius is one of resilience, adaptation, and evolution. It's a testament to the enduring power of faith, passed down through generations, even on foreign soil. It's also a reminder of how historical events, even those born out of oppression, can have unexpected consequences, shaping the cultural landscape of nations in unique ways.
So, the next time you find yourself on the shores of Mauritius, remember that the vibrant Hindu community you encounter is not just a coincidence. It's a legacy shaped by hardship, faith, and an incredible journey across the "black waters," a testament to the enduring spirit of Dharma finding a unique home in Africa.