Modi offers prayers at Mauritius temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday visited the Ganga Talao, a Hindu pilgrimage site in the Mauritius capital, and offered prayers at the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Modi, who arrived here on Wednesday as part of a three-nation trip, poured 'Gangajal' on the Shivalinga at the temple, assisted by Hindu priests.

The Ganga Talao is considered one of the most sacred Hindu places in Mauritius.

Modi also undertook a tour of the site.

Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Bassin, is a sacred lake, situated about 1,800 feet above sea level. The crater lake is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites outside India.

Along the Grand Bassin, there are several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other Hindu gods, as well as little shrines and colourful statues. Not far from Grand Bassin, there is also a 33-metre tall statue of the Shiva, which is known as the highest statue in Mauritius, according to the Mauritius Guide website.

Modi will also visit Appravasi Ghat. The temple site and Appravasi Ghat are associated with the arrival of Indian indentured labour to Mauritius over 180 years ago.

Modi will address the National Assembly of Mauritius later in the day.