New Delhi: Mauritius’ National Day is a public holiday observed every year on March 12. The day commemorates the country’s independence from Britain in 1968 and its transformation into a republic in 1992, both of which occurred on March 12.
The country was declared constitutional monarchy on March 12, 1968 with Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan as the first Prime Minister and Queen Elizabeth II as the Head of State. Mauritius was declared a republic on March 12, 1992.
Mauritians raise their flag on the island on National Day to demonstrate their pride. Military parades and live music are part of a formal flag-raising ceremony.
About Mauritius
Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean about 800 kilometres east of Madagascar, off the coast of Africa, with Port Louis as the country’s capital.
Vegetation
Sugarcane is extensively cultivated and exported. Besides, vegetables and tea are also farmed for local use. Labelled as the melting pot of flavours, Mauritius provides a diverse range of cuisines and is a host for selling international food.
Wildlife
The wildlife includes over 600 indigenous species. The samber, tenrec, mongoose, and a variety of birds and insects make up the wildlife. The dodo was a native of the island. Efforts to conserve indigenous bird species on the verge of extinction began in the late twentieth century.
Language
Though English is the official language, only a small fraction of the population speaks it. Creole is spoken by around four-fifths of the people. One-tenth of the population speaks Bhojpuri, while a fraction speaks French. Hindi, Chinese, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu are among the other languages.
Places to visit
Port Louis– The capital city of Mauritius, Port Louis, is a seaside town with vibrant markets, restaurants, small museums, spectacular architecture, and waterfronts, making it an ideal tropical vacation spot.
The blend of culture, tradition, and history of Port Louis is interesting. Port Louis, called Porlwi by locals, is home to a plethora of temples, churches, and mosques that reflect the city’s cultural variety.
Ile Aux Cerfs– or Deer Island is a tiny islet off the coast of Mauritius that was once densely occupied by deer and stags. The deer vanished over time due to an influx of visitors.
It is off the coast of Trou d’Eau Douce and has soft white sands, blue sea and is a hub for numerous watersports. The beach is usually always busy.