Indian HighComm grants over Rs 8 million to Ramayana Centre

The Indian High Commissionner to Mauritius, Mr Abhay Thakur, has remitted a cheque of Rs 8,376,000 to the Ramayana Centre as a grant from the Government of India. The ceremony was held on 4 April 2017, during the Ram Navami celebrations which mark the birth of Shri Ram Chandra Ji, the seventh avatar of God Vishnu during the Treta Yuga.

The Vice President of the Republic,. Mr. Paramasivum Pillay Vyapoory, was present at the ceremony held at the Ramayana Centre complex in Union Park. The above Government of India grant will be utilized towards the expansion and renovation of the Ramayana Centre, including renovating its entrance, landscaping, painting and beautification with cultural items. 

Recalling that the Ramcharitmanas was the source of succour for the original Girmitiya immigrants brought to Mauritius, High Commissioner Abhay Thakur highlighted the importance of Ramayana in Mauritian culture and in its close bonds with India. Established by an Act of the National Assembly of Mauritius in 2001, the Ramayana Centre symbolizes the commitment of Mauritius towards preserving its cultural roots as well as ties with India. 

“Government of India is committed to a further strengthening of our multifaceted bilateral relations with Mauritius, and build upon our close cultural and civilisational ties,” stated a press release by the High Commission.