By Atma Tattva Das
Mauritius recently commemorated the 49th anniversary of Srila Prabhupada’s historic arrival in the country in 1975 with a week of celebrations that honored his legacy as well as set the stage for next year’s highly anticipated 50th-anniversary event. From heartfelt gatherings at Krishna Balaram Mandir to a vibrant beach kirtan at Pointe aux Sables, the spirit of devotion and gratitude for Srila Prabhupada’s contributions was palpable.
The festivities kicked off on September 29th at Krishna Balaram Mandir, where devotees and well-wishers gathered to hear the plans for next year’s milestone celebration. Arjuna, one of Srila Prabhupada’s direct shiksha disciples in Mauritius, reminded the audience of the power of cooperation among devotees, emphasizing how vital it is for everyone to work together to carry Srila Prabhupada’s mission forward. Ajay Caitanya Dasa from the core event organizing team highlighted how marking this momentous occasion is essential for future generations of devotees. At the same time, main coordinator Rasika Sindhu Dasa passionately shared the vision behind the 50th-anniversary celebration, encouraging everyone to think about how they can contribute to this grand offering of gratitude to Srila Prabhupada. Events like an essay writing competition, Padayatra, and even a special souvenir coin were announced as part of next year’s celebrations.
On October 1st, the anniversary of Srila Prabhupada’s actual arrival in Mauritius, a lively harinam sankirtan party set off from Pointe aux Sables, where Srila Prabhupada had once walked during his visit. Led by Panchattava Dasa and joined by nearly 100 devotees, the procession, which included a chariot carrying Gaura-Nitai deities, traveled through the streets, spreading the Holy Names. Even local residents, many of whom live in disadvantaged areas, came out to greet the procession, receiving halva prasadam and offering flowers and sandalwood to the Deities. It was a moment of spiritual connection and joy, with Sundar Caitanya Goswami leading an ecstatic kirtan that had the youth dancing without reserve in the streets.
The Harinam ended at the very beach where Srila Prabhupada had stayed during his 1975 visit. Rasika Sindhu poignantly described how the area had since transformed. Though new developments have since replaced the original house where Srila Prabhupada had resided, the devotees expressed a hope to purchase land nearby and preserve this sacred space.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/mauritius-marks-49-years-since-srila-prabhupadas-arrival/
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