Kush Sharma, manager of Maurind Craft Gallery

I come from Jaypur, in the Indian State of Rajasthan. It is the mythic rosy town where stone products, marble benches and antique sandstone ornaments are an old tradition amidst religious sculptures. Nearly two years have elapsed since I arrived in Mauritius, a place really close in culture and customs to mine, and I can say that things go very smoothly when you really want to launch your business. You live in a country, not affected by the hectic rhythm of life, yet it?s a land of opportunities.

It was easy to start Maurind Crafts in Bon Accueil. Local people are simple and welcoming. They show much curiosity for the crafts coming from India. With the growing fondness of locals for natural products and different types of stones, I felt encouraged to become more centralized and we have been able to settle this year in Curepipe.

Not only is there a boom in the construction sector, with hotels and villas flourishing, but the taste for rocky gardens and landscaping is remarkably spreading.

Stone is not a dead material; it can be put into unexpected shapes, used for multiple functions. And it adds a feeling of authenticity where it is valued. Whether it be natural objects or not, decoration is so essential in someone?s living. Stoneware, tables, clay pots or lanterns, granite ceramics, lime pavements can fit all rooms of your home as they match lasting solidity with refinement. I personally enjoy natural surroundings, with fountains and green expanses. A touch of design enhances such an environment.

Most of the objects and materials that I am displaying in my shop come directly from the stone quarries of Rajasthan. With them and their artwork, I am happy to share with every Mauritian a way of brightening up life.