Expressing his sentiments on social media platform X, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed his profound sorrow over the tragic incident that occurred during the Mahashivratri festivities in Mauritius, resulting in the loss of six pilgrims' lives. In his message, Jaishankar extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire Mauritian community during this challenging period.
According to statements made by police commissioner Anil Kumar Dip on national television, the fire erupted when electrical wires inadvertently came into contact with a wooden and bamboo cart transporting effigies of Hindu deities. The unfortunate incident also resulted in injuries to seven individuals, one of whom remains in critical condition, as reported by news agency AFP.
Jaishankar expressed his condolences, stating, "Saddened to hear about the unfortunate tragedy that occurred during the Mahashivratri celebrations in Mauritius. Our condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Mauritius at this difficult time," through his official Twitter account.
The pilgrims affected by the fire were en route to the revered Grand Bassin Lake, a site of great significance to the Hindu community in Mauritius, as they prepared to observe the Mahashivratri festivities scheduled for March 8 and 9.
It's noteworthy that Hinduism constitutes the largest religious denomination in Mauritius, with Hindus comprising approximately 48.5 percent of the nation's populace, underscoring the cultural and spiritual importance of Mahashivratri celebrations to the Mauritian Hindu community.
