Cap sur Maurice Destination Immobilier - Edition 2019 Edition 2019 | Page 35

MAURITIUS ISLAND DISCOVERY
Mauritian Culture
& Traditions
The Mauritian culture takes its roots in the diversity
of its population and expresses itself through religion,
local crafts, music, dance, literature and tradition.
Experience this cultural mosaic from your luxury villa*.
One of Mauritius’ greatest assets is undoubtedly
its people; the country is home to an ethnic mix that
makes its cultural identity quite unique.
Several languages are spoken on the island,
namely : English (offi cial language), French, Creole
(Mauritian), Hindi, Bhojpuri, Urdu, Mandarin, Hakka,
Telegu, Marathi and Tamil.
Dance and Music
Music and dance form an integral part of the
Mauritian culture. The musical traditions are inherited
from India, China, Africa and even Europe. The most
famous music style is Sega. Heavily inspired by African
music, the Sega is a musical expression that typically
refl ects the Mauritian way of life; joy, incandescence
and happiness. Initially used by African slaves to
express sensuality and the pain of being forcefully
uprooted from their homes, it has today transformed
into a festive tropical dance. Women wear large,
colourful skirts and men where puff y shirts and wide-
leg trousers.
Literature
The beauty and many particularisms of Mauritius
have inspired many writers, whether born on the island
or not. Some of the greatest Mauritian writers, such
as Ananda Devi or Malcom de Chazal, have managed
to put to paper all the poetry emanating from the
paradisiacal beaches, surreal landscape colours and
extreme blend of cultures in their works.
The most famous novel on Mauritius is « Paul and
Virginie », written by French writer Bernardin de
Saint Pierre. First published in 1787, this novel tells
the story of two young lovers, and covers topics such
as Mauritian society and slavery during the French
colonial period. The novel touches on the social issues
of the island, the beauty of its landscapes and the
Mauritian way of life.
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