Muslim History of Mauritius

Muslim History of Mauritius

From First Arrival to Modern Day

The history of Islam in Mauritius is a rich and fascinating journey shaped by migration, trade, colonization, and faith. Today, Muslims make up a significant part of the Mauritian population, contributing to the island’s multicultural identity. But how did Islam first arrive in Mauritius, and how did the Mauritian Muslim community evolve over time?

This article explores the complete history of Muslims in Mauritius, from the earliest arrivals to the modern-day Muslim community.

Early Traces: Before Permanent Settlement

Before Mauritius was officially inhabited, the island was likely known to Arab sailors and traders navigating the Indian Ocean as early as the 10th century.

While there is no strong evidence of permanent Muslim settlement at this stage, these early contacts show that Islamic civilization was already connected to the region long before European colonization.

First Muslims in Mauritius (French Period – 18th Century)

The first documented Muslim presence in Mauritius dates back to the French colonial period (1715–1810).

  • In 1735, French Governor Mahé de Labourdonnais brought Indian Muslim artisans and sailors (known as “lascars”) to work in Port Louis.
  • These early Muslims helped develop the port and infrastructure of the island.

👉 This marks the true beginning of the Muslim community in Mauritius.

At the same time:

  • Some enslaved Africans brought to Mauritius were also Muslims, as many were captured from regions influenced by Islam in East Africa.

British Era & Mass Muslim Migration (19th Century)

The most significant growth of Islam in Mauritius happened under British rule.

Indentured Labour System (1834–1907)

After slavery was abolished, the British brought large numbers of workers from India:

  • Over 450,000 Indian indentured labourers arrived between 1835 and 1907.
  • Many of them were Muslims from regions like:
    • Bihar
    • Uttar Pradesh
    • Gujarat

👉 This period shaped the core of today’s Mauritian Muslim population.

Formation of Muslim Communities

During this time, distinct Muslim groups emerged:

  • Memons & Surtees (Gujarati traders) – economically influential
  • “Calcuttiya” Muslims – working-class labourers from North India
  • Shia and Sunni communities developed alongside each other

These groups:

  • Built mosques
  • Established madrassas
  • Created strong religious institutions

Development of Mosques & Religious Life

Islam became more visible through architecture and institutions:

Mosques became:

  • Religious centers
  • Community hubs
  • Educational spaces

Demographic Changes Over Time

The Muslim population fluctuated significantly:

  • ~33% of population (1835)
  • ~64% (1861, peak due to migration)
  • Less than 25% by 1909
  • Around 17.3% today

👉 Today, Islam is the third largest religion in Mauritius.

Independence & Modern Identity (1968–Present)

Mauritius gained independence in 1968, becoming a secular nation with no official religion.

A Multicultural Muslim Community

Modern Mauritian Muslims are:

  • Mostly of Indian descent
  • Predominantly Sunni (about 95%)
  • Linguistically diverse (Urdu, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Creole)

They are deeply integrated into Mauritian society while maintaining Islamic traditions.

Islamic Revival & Education (1970s Onwards)

From the 1970s, there was a revival of Islamic identity:

  • Establishment of organizations like Société Islamique de Maurice (SIM)
  • Growth of Islamic education, Qur’an studies, and youth programs
  • Increased connection with the global Muslim world

Islam in Mauritius Today

Today, Islam in Mauritius is characterized by:

✔ Strong Community Values

  • Focus on family and marriage (nikah)
  • Respect for tradition and culture

✔ Religious Diversity

  • Sunni majority
  • Shia, Bohra, and other smaller groups

✔ Peaceful Coexistence

Mauritius is known globally for:

  • Religious harmony
  • Cultural diversity

Mauritian Muslim

❤️ Role of Marriage in Mauritian Muslim Culture

Marriage plays a central role in the Mauritian Muslim community:

  • Strong preference for halal relationships
  • Family involvement in matchmaking
  • Emphasis on compatibility, deen, and values

👉 This is why platforms like Mauritian Muslim marriage websites are increasingly important in connecting singles worldwide. Register now.

🌐 The Mauritian Muslim Diaspora

Many Mauritian Muslims now live abroad, especially in:

  • United Kingdom
  • France
  • Canada
  • Australia

Despite migration, they maintain strong ties to:

  • Culture
  • Religion
  • Marriage traditions

Conclusion

The history of Muslims in Mauritius is a story of resilience, migration, and faith. From early sailors and enslaved peoples to indentured labourers and modern professionals, the Muslim community has played a vital role in shaping the island’s identity.

Today, Mauritian Muslims continue to balance:

  • Tradition and modernity
  • Local culture and global connections
  • Faith and everyday life