Mauritius Declares Monday 9 November a Public Holiday for Divali

Mauritius will observe a public holiday on Monday, 9 November, in celebration of Divali — one of the most important festivals in the country's Hindu calendar. The announcement was made by the Mauritian government and reported by Le Défi Media. The official gazette declaration confirms that the day will be a nationwide public holiday, meaning schools, government offices, and most businesses will be closed. **What is Divali?** Divali, also spelled Diwali, is the Hindu festival of lights — a celebration symbolising the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. It is one of the most widely observed festivals in Mauritius, where Hindus make up the largest religious community, accounting for roughly 48% of the population according to national census data. The festival is traditionally marked by the lighting of oil lamps (diyas), fireworks, the sharing of sweets, prayers, and family gatherings. In Mauritius, it is a moment of nationwide celebration that cuts across communities, with many non-Hindu Mauritians also participating in the festivities. **Public Holidays in Mauritius** Mauritius observes a multicultural calendar of public holidays that reflects its diverse religious and ethnic makeup. These include Hindu festivals such as Divali, Holi, and Maha Shivaratree; Muslim celebrations like Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha; Christian holidays including Christmas and All Saints' Day; and national commemorations such as Independence Day on 12 March. Public holidays are gazetted — formally published in the Government Gazette — and are legally binding across the island. Employees who are required to work on a public holiday are generally entitled to additional compensation under Mauritian labour law. **What This Means** For workers and students, Monday 9 November is a day off. Businesses that operate on a 24/7 basis — such as hospitals, transport, and essential services — will continue to function, but office workers and schoolchildren will have the day free. For tourists and visitors, it is worth noting that some shops and services may be closed, while public spaces and temples are likely to be more active than usual. Attending a Divali celebration or visiting a decorated neighbourhood can be a memorable cultural experience for those on the island during this period. Source: Le Défi Media