During Maha Shivaratri thousands of Hindus, dressed in white and carrying flower-adorned arches, embark on a pilgrimage to the Grand Bassin volcanic lake. Once there they collect holy water, bathe statuettes of Lord Shiva and hold special religious ceremonies.
The "Great Night of Shiva" in Mauritius is one of the most important Hindu festivals outside India. Following a night of vigil, white-clad devotees carry the Kanwar, a wooden arc decorated with tiny mirrors, paper and flower garlands, to the Grand Bassin.
At the lake, devotees perform their Pujas, little lights on banana leaves and flowers are set adrift on the water and food sacrifices are made. The devotees also bathe their lingams, phallic mystical stones associated with the cult of Shiva.
Typical of Hindu mythology, many interpretations of the origin and meaning of this festival circulate.
Maha Shivaratri is also a public holiday in Mauritius. The festival takes place on the night of no moon between the end of February and the beginning of March, and the dates vary from year to year. To make sure you have the right date, please check with the local tourist office.
At the lake, devotees perform their Pujas, little lights on banana leaves and flowers are set adrift on the water and food sacrifices are made. The devotees also bathe their lingams, phallic mystical stones associated with the cult of Shiva.
Typical of Hindu mythology, many interpretations of the origin and meaning of this festival circulate.
Maha Shivaratri is also a public holiday in Mauritius. The festival takes place on the night of no moon between the end of February and the beginning of March, and the dates vary from year to year. To make sure you have the right date, please check with the local tourist office.
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