PM Modi Presents Mahakumbh Holy Water, Makhana, Banarasi Saree to Mauritius President

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day State Visit to Mauritius, gifted Holy Sangam Water from Mahakumbh to President Dharam Gokhool and a Banarasi saree to his wife, Brinda Gokhool, on Tuesday. The gesture underscored the deep cultural ties between India and Mauritius during Modi’s first visit to the island nation since 2015.

The Holy Sangam Water, sourced from the sacred confluence of rivers at Mahakumbh, was presented to President Gokhool in an ornate brass and copper pot, symbolizing spiritual reverence. Alongside this, Modi offered Makhana, a nutrient-rich superfood from Bihar, among other gifts. For Brinda Gokhool, he selected a Banarasi saree from Varanasi—renowned for its luxurious silk, intricate brocades, and shimmering zari work—housed in a Sadeli box from Gujarat. This handcrafted wooden box, adorned with detailed inlay patterns, is traditionally used to preserve cherished items like sarees or jewelry, adding an extra layer of cultural significance.

Modi’s visit began with a ceremonial welcome at the airport by Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and other dignitaries, marking a warm reception after nearly a decade. The leaders planted a sapling together at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, paying tribute to Mauritius’ revered founding father. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the event on X, noting, “This reflects the robust India-Mauritius relationship.”

Following the botanical tribute, Modi met President Gokhool, with a State lunch scheduled later. The exchange of gifts and joint activities signal a strengthening of bilateral bonds, blending diplomacy with cultural resonance. As Modi’s itinerary unfolds, these symbolic gestures underscore India’s commitment to fostering ties with Mauritius, rooted in shared heritage and mutual respect.