We live in an island where religion plays an important part in the life of the citizens. Islam, Christianity and Hinduism are the three major components of the society; that coexist in peace. The French and the British brought in Christianity, while Islam and Hinduism were inherited from Indian migrants during the early days of colonization.
The freedom of each religion is guaranteed by the Constitution and forms the basis of balance in the practice of the various faiths. The fervor at each religious festival is unique and that’s what makes the beauty of this little island in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
A week after Muslims celebrated Yaum-un-Nabi, Christians are celebrating Easter today. For those who might not be familiar, Yaum-un-Nabi marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. It’s the essence of faith in Islam. Easter marks the resurrection of Christ after his crucifixion. That’s the basis of Christian faith. After the usual mass, marking the end of the 40-day fasting, most Christians flocked to the sea side on this fine-weather-Sunday.
Mauritian residing in Rodrigues, Amanoola Khayrattee (pen name Alfa King) is contributing writer and journalist to La Gazette Mag de l’océan indien and This Week News Mauritius.
Retired, former meteorological cadre, trade unionist and OSH consultant, Amanoola has written for in-house union and other journals, publications and magazines. He runs two blogs since 2007: “Alfa King Memories”, and “Le Journal d’Alfa King”. When he is not reading or writing, he is on a 10+ km daily hike in anticipation of his monthly trails.
Amanoola may be reached at [email protected].