Phoenix, Mauritius – The Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture (IGCIC), the esteemed cultural arm of the High Commission of India in Mauritius, has announced its vibrant program lineup for August 2025. Set to take place at its state-of-the-art premises in Phoenix, the calendar is a thoughtfully curated blend of tradition, education, and festivity, designed further to strengthen the profound cultural ties between India and Mauritius.
Fostering India-Mauritius Cultural Bonds
The IGCIC, operating under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), was established in 1987. Its current sprawling 20,000 sq. meter complex in Phoenix was inaugurated on March 11, 2000, by then-Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee of India and Dr. Navin Chandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius. Dedicated to promoting India’s rich cultural heritage, IGCIC offers diverse teaching programs in Hindustani Vocal Music, Tabla, Kathak Dance, Sanskrit, and Yoga, alongside a well-stocked library and regular Indian cinema screenings.
Mauritius holds a unique connection with India, with a significant portion of its population tracing their roots back to the subcontinent. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian diaspora in Mauritius comprises approximately 10,500 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and a substantial 884,000 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), underscoring the deep-seated historical and cultural linkages between the two nations.
August 2025 Highlights:
The month kicks off with a focus on education and community:
- August 5, 2025: New Student Orientation
- Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Venue: MPH, IGCIC, Phoenix
- The academic year begins with an introductory program and campus tour for the fresh batch of IGCIC students, setting a welcoming tone for their cultural journey. (By invitation only)
- August 8, 2025: Raksha Bandhan Celebrations
- Venue: MPH, IGCIC, Phoenix
- In collaboration with various socio-cultural organizations, IGCIC will host Raksha Bandhan festivities, fostering community spirit and honoring traditional customs through the symbolic exchange of Rakhis. (By invitation only)
National Pride and Cinematic Delights:
The latter half of August is dedicated to national pride and cultural immersion:
- August 14, 2025: Independence Day Full Dress Rehearsals
- Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Venue: IGCIC Auditorium
- A full dress rehearsal for the cultural performances preceding India’s Independence Day celebrations. (By invitation only)
- August 15, 2025: India’s Independence Day Celebration
- Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Venue: IGCIC
- Jointly organized by IGCIC and the High Commission of India, this event will feature a flag hoisting ceremony followed by captivating cultural performances by the IGCIC team. (Open to all)
- August 23, 2025: Indian Movie Public Screening
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: IGCIC Auditorium
- Wrapping up the month’s events, a special public screening of an Indian movie with English subtitles will be held, offering a glimpse into contemporary Indian cinema. (Open to all)
A Bridge Between Cultures
The meticulously planned events for August 2025 underscore IGCIC’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, education, and the preservation of Indian traditions. By serving as a vital bridge between generations, cultures, and communities, IGCIC continues to reaffirm the enduring spirit of India-Mauritius friendship.
For more information on IGCIC programs and future events, please visit the High Commission of India in Mauritius website or contact the IGCIC directly.
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