The Global Rainbow Foundation, in collaboration with the Dr. Prabhavati Ghurburrun Charitable Trust, the High Commission of India in Mauritius, and the Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture commemorated the birthdays of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the Father of the Nation of the Republic of India, and Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the Father of the Nation of the Republic of Mauritius, at Petit Raffray on Saturday.
These two great personalities have greatly contributed to the development of their respective countries thanks to their avant-garde vision.
This symbolic day started with a walk from Petit Raffray to the GRF headquarters, and was followed by a donation of assistive devices, food packages, and scholarships. Distinguished guests came to pay tribute to these two iconic figures, including Kailash Purryag, former President of Mauritius, Raouf Bundhun, former Vice President of the Republic, some members of the Labour Party, such as Patrick Assirvaden, Mahend Gungapersad and Fabrice David, a representative of the Embassy of Madagascar in Mauritius, Paralympic Champion, Noémi Alphonse, Hewlett Nelson of PHYSFED, as well as some loyal collaborators such as M. Vinayak Muzumdar of Ajanta Pharma Mauritius, Girish Desai of Dr Hansa & Dr Mahesh Gunessee Charitable Trust Mauritius. Mrs. Mariam Goodur of the Muslim Women Council, and Mr. Pauline Louis who recounted their encounters with Mahatma Gandhi and Mr. Pahlad Ramsurrun, a prolific historian, who shared his memories of the Indian leader’s visit to Mauritius.
Prof. Armoogum Parsuramen, President and Founder of the Global Rainbow Foundation, expressed his gratitude: “These two legends, Gandhi and SRH, are a source of inspiration to me through their work, especially in the field of education and service to humanity.
Prof. Parsuramen also shared some cherished memories with SSR, including when he was campaigning with him in Constituency No. 6 on a truck for the 1983 general election, or how during that same year he met with SSR to seek advice on the government’s intention to abolish the laureate system. “SSR advised me not to touch the laureate program. I managed to convince the government not to go ahead, successfully negotiating a partial 50% scholarship with the UK, and additional scholarships from France and Australia.”
He then recalled how SSR, following his invitation, had come to the modest village of Pavillon Cap Malheureux for the celebration of its 84th anniversary. “That day, I was very touched and grateful to SSR. I humbly invited him to accept my proposal to name the elementary school in Cap Malheureux after him.”
The Global Rainbow Foundation will continue to promote the legacy of these 2 influential leaders to new generations.
