Mauritius has a very large population of people who are Hindu, a religion and way of life that is most commonly associated with people from India. Hindus celebrate several holidays and festivals throughout the year, and they are colorful and interesting to watch. I’m excited to participate in a holiday called Holi, which is coming up soon! Holi involves throwing colored water and powder on anyone you pass. We’re going to find some white clothing and have so much fun during that festival!
We were lucky to see a festival not long after our arrival. Ganesh Chaturthi is a ten-day festival celebrated by Hindus. At the beginning of the festival, a clay Ganesha is taken into each home. Ganesha is a human-like figure with a very large potbelly and the head of an elephant. Some statues are very large and intricate, while others may be small and simple. The people who celebrate this festival spend the ten days fasting, praying, and giving offerings of flowers and sweet desserts to their clay idol of Ganesha.
Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival that celebrates the birth of Ganesha, the Hindu god of success. By worshipping him and providing offerings during his festival, Hindus believe they will be rewarded with success and prosperity throughout the upcoming year.
