Mauritius is often referred to as “la nation arc en ciel” because it is inhabited by people of different religions who live in a spirit of unity, mutual respect and tolerance. Our community is chiefly comprised of the Hindus, Muslims, Christians and people of the Chinese origin whose ancestors came from the African, Asian and European continents.

A multi racial country has a specific beauty. Just as different kinds and colours of flowers enhance the beauty of a garden, our mosaic of cultures displays the same charm. Each community gets acquainted with the cultures and traditions of the other one. Each religion celebrates its own festivals and a public holiday is granted by the Government. Tourists relish and marvel at the exquisite taste and diversity of our Mauritian cuisine.

Divali, Eid ul Fitr, Cavedee, Christmas and the Chinese Spring Festival are the most important festivals. During these festivals, delicacies are shared among neighbours, friends and relatives. The different places of worship teem with the devotees who gather to pray in a spirit of piety and brotherhood. Besides, cultural shows and programmes are held through out the country.

Mauritians are well known for their solidarity. In hours of crisis like after the passage of a cyclone or a fire, Mauritians readily offer their help to each other in the name of humanity. During the Indian Ocean games which were held in our country last year, the population showed its unflinching and steadfast support to our athletes.

The whole nation was on tenterhooks and was hopefully expecting that our fellow countrymen would bring glory to our small island by reaping the maximum number of medals.

However, it is horrifying to note that sometimes unscrupulous politicians try to arouse communal feelings among the population so as to further their own selfish motives. But, fortunately the Mauritian population is literate and enlightened and they are not influenced by the misdeeds of such short-minded and mean people. When there is no social harmony in a country, riots happen. Innocent people are killed and no investors would want to invest in a country where chaos reign supreme.

Racial harmony should not be taken for granted. It is incumbent on each one of us to see to it that unity is preserved at all cost. School teachers should induce their pupils to explore the traditions and cultures of each other. Parents should encourage their children to respect differences and to mix freely with others. It is only through unity and cooperation that stability, prosperity and economic progress can be achieved.

Rukaiya DOOREEMEAH