Traditional religion in the Seychelles! The prime minister offered puja at the only Hindu temple

Seychelles is world famous for its clear blue sea and luxury resorts. But there is a piece of India hidden in the chest of this island nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Seychelles on a three-day state visit. And there he reached the famous ‘Arul Mihu Navashakti Vinayagar’ temple in Victoria city. The only Hindu temple in Seychelles is now practicing this holy land around this prayer of the Prime Minister. It is also a unique point of attraction for tourists.

What is the specialty of this temple?

This temple was built in 1992 by the expatriate Hindu community of Seychelles. The main deity worshiped here is Vighnaharta Ganesha. The main attraction of this temple, modeled after the Dravidian architecture of Tamil Nadu, is its almost 100 feet high entrance gate or ‘gopuram’. The colorful and exquisitely crafted idols of the deities draw the eyes of passers-by from afar. In stark contrast to the flamboyant colors of the exterior, the sanctum sanctorum or ‘Garbhagriham’ of the temple is enveloped in an eerily calm and mellow atmosphere.

When is the festive season?

Though pilgrims flock here throughout the year, the temple takes on a different form during festival days. A large number of tourists flock to witness the ten-day ‘Rath Shobhayatra’ in August-September and the ‘Kavadi Festival’ in January-February. Besides, this square is decorated with the lights of Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali.

How to go?

This temple is located on Quincy Street in Victoria, the capital of Seychelles. Seychelles International Airport is only 20 minutes by car. Easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The temple doors are open daily from 6 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM.

What else is there to see around?

After visiting the temples, one can explore several places of interest in Victoria on foot. A stone’s throw away is the famous ‘Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clark Market’. Also nearby are the historic Victoria Clock Tower, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Botanical Gardens.