Visitors to Mauritius often find themselves in a state of delight and surprise as they tour the island – not least when they meet Mauritian people for the very first time.

This is a country that appears to be at a cross-roads with many other lands. The population of Mauritius is incredibly diverse. There are people of Indian descent (Indians, Tamils, Marathis, Muslims), those of Creole lineage (with their Malagasy and African origins), families of Sino-Mauritians (from the Far East), and finally groups of Franco and Anglo-Mauritians.

Today, Mauritius’ Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians are united – to quote the national anthem – as “one people… one nation, in peace, justice and liberty”. Together, they make a vital contribution to the island’s multi-ethnic identity.