Mauritius delegation visits Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, expresses spiritual enthusiasm

A high-level delegation from Mauritius, led by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi on the third day of their official tour in India on Friday.

The visit was marked by a series of religious rituals and heartfelt interactions, as the delegation expressed profound spiritual connection and deep admiration for the ancient temple and its cultural heritage.

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During the visit, Prime Minister Ramgoolam and his wife, along with his delegation, participated in a traditional worship ceremony that holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Vishwanath.

The ceremony included the chanting of the Rudri Path and the offering of Panchamrit, a sacred blend of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar, to the deity. The temple priests welcomed the delegation with angavastrams and Rudraksha malas, symbolising spiritual honour and blessings.

The worship rituals were conducted by 11 priests, following the Shodashopachara method, which involves 16 ceremonial steps to invoke the divine presence. Inside the sanctum sanctorum, five priests performed the abhishek (sacred bathing) of the deity with Panchamrit, in a solemn and deeply devotional atmosphere.

Prime Minister Ramgoolam appeared visibly moved and emotionally overwhelmed during the ceremony. He, along with his spouse, received prasadam consisting of Panchmeva, vibhuti (sacred ash), and bel leaves inscribed with the name of Lord Ram, symbolising purity and devotion.

Chief priest Tek Narayan Upadhyay explained that the worship was conducted with full adherence to traditional rituals and observed that the prime minister and his spouse were deeply touched by the experience.

Speaking after the ceremony, the delegation members acknowledged the deep-rooted religious and cultural bonds between India and Mauritius. They expressed hope that the blessings of Lord Vishwanath would further strengthen the friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The visit underscored the shared spiritual heritage and values that continue to unite communities across borders.

After completing the darshan and participating in the rituals, the delegation departed from the temple premises and proceeded to the airport to continue their journey. The visit to Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple left a lasting impression on the Mauritian delegation, reaffirming the importance of spiritual diplomacy in nurturing international relationships.

Later, the Mauritius PM and delegates left for Ayodhya.