After a four-year hiatus, the official flag ceremony for the National Day celebrations in Mauritius returned to its historic venue, the Champ-de-Mars. This marked a significant moment as it was the first time under the current government that the celebrations were held at the very spot where the Mauritian flag replaced the Union Jack 56 years ago. Previous years saw the ceremonies relocated to State House due to health and economic reasons. However, this year, the government, citing the culmination of its mandate, reinstated the traditional program along with a cultural show. Adding to the grandeur of the occasion, Shrimati Draupadi Murmu, the President of the Republic of India, was invited as the guest of honor.
The distinguished guest, President Smt. Draupadi Murmu, arrived at the Champ-de-Mars at approximately 1:57 pm and received a warm welcome from President Prithiviraj Roopun and his wife, as well as Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth and his wife. The event was attended by notable government representatives, including Kobita, the Minister of Arts and Cultural Heritage, Avinash Teeluck, the Commissioner of Police, and other officials.
The flag ceremony commenced at 2 p.m., accompanied by a spectacular ’21-Gun Salute.’ Following this, a flypast display featuring helicopters from the Mauritius Police Force and the Indian Naval Dornier Aircraft enthralled the audience. The parade that followed showcased vehicles, a contingent from the Indian Navy, the Seychelles Defence Force, Non-Governmental Organizations, and the Second Regiment of Marine Infantry Parachutists of the Armed Forces of the Southern Indian Ocean Zone. Additionally, majorettes and majors from Queen Elizabeth College, accompanied by the Police band, took part in the procession.
The highlight of the National Day celebrations was a cultural program curated by the National Troupe of Mauritius Ltd. The program aimed to showcase the country’s cultural diversity through captivating dance performances. In a special rendition, the group ABAIM’s song ‘Ruz Ble Zonn Ver’ was performed by twenty local singers and a choir comprising around one hundred children.
The theme chosen for the 56th anniversary of independence and the 32nd anniversary of the Republic of Mauritius was “Ansam nou Avanse,” which translates to “Together We Advance.” This theme symbolizes the unity of the nation, transcending cultural differences, and emphasizes the collective strength derived from this unity. It also reflects the shared determination to foster an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous island for all.
In addition to the National Day celebrations, President Droupadi Murmu was bestowed with an honorary Doctorate by the University of Mauritius. The ceremony, held at the Octave Wiehe Auditorium in Réduit, was attended by distinguished guests, including Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth and President Pradeep Roopun.
Prior to the celebrations, President Droupadi Murmu visited the Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI) in Moka, where she engaged with representatives of socio-cultural organizations. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun.
Following the official ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu held a series of meetings with various political personalities at the Oberoi Hotel in Balaclava. The meetings included Chief Justice Rehana Mungly Gulbul, Speaker of the National Assembly Sooroojdev Phokeer, Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, Paul Bérenger, and Opposition leader Xavier Luc Duval. The Indian High Commissioner to Mauritius, Nandini Singla, was also present during these discussions.
The National Day celebrations in Mauritius showcased the nation’s cultural richness and unity, while also fostering diplomatic ties with India. It was a momentous occasion that highlighted the collective progress and aspirations of the Mauritian people as they continue to build an inclusive and prosperous future.
