Varanasi, Sep 13: A high-level delegation from Mauritius, led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, visited the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple on Friday, the third day of their official India tour. The visit highlighted the delegation’s deep spiritual engagement and admiration for India’s rich cultural heritage.
During the visit, PM Ramgoolam, his spouse, and other delegation members participated in traditional worship ceremonies, including the chanting of Rudri Path and offering Panchamrit a sacred mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar to Lord Vishwanath. The temple priests honoured the visitors with angavastrams and Rudraksha malas as a mark of respect and blessings.
The rituals were conducted following the Shodashopachara method, consisting of 16 ceremonial steps, while five priests performed the abhishek (sacred bathing) of the deity in the sanctum sanctorum. PM Ramgoolam appeared visibly moved and received prasadam, including Panchmeva, vibhuti, and bel leaves, symbolising purity and devotion.
Chief priest Tek Narayan Upadhyay noted that the visitors were deeply touched by the spiritual experience. The delegation also acknowledged the longstanding cultural and religious ties between India and Mauritius, hoping that the blessings of Lord Vishwanath would strengthen bilateral friendship and cooperation.
After completing darshan and rituals, the delegation departed for the airport to continue their journey, later heading to Ayodhya. The visit underscored the role of spiritual diplomacy in nurturing international relations.