Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, visited Ayodhya on Friday, September 12, 2025, where he offered prayers at the Ram Temple. Upon his arrival, he was warmly greeted by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The city of Ayodhya was adorned with posters to welcome the Mauritian Prime Minister.
Ramgoolam's visit underscores the strong cultural and civilizational bonds between India and Mauritius. Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, who was present along with Adityanath to welcome Ramgoolam, highlighted the historical connections between the two nations, noting that many people from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar migrated to Mauritius during British rule and have since maintained their cultural identity. Shahi stated, "They have kept the cultural identity of India alive there. We welcome the Prime Minister of Mauritius to Ayodhya".
Prior to his visit to Ayodhya, Ramgoolam visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described Ramgoolam's visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple as a reflection of the deep cultural and civilizational bonds that unite India and Mauritius.
Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trustee Anil Mishra mentioned that approximately 30 people, including the Mauritian Prime Minister, were expected to visit the Ram Temple site. Mishra further elaborated on the itinerary, stating that after offering prayers to Ram Lalla, Ramgoolam would also have the darshan of Ram Darbar and receive detailed information about Ram Janmabhoomi. Following this, he was scheduled to proceed to Kuber Tila to visit a Shiv Temple, after which he would partake in a light meal before departing. According to Newsonair, Ramgoolam performed Aarti and Pujan at the Ram temple and stayed in the temple premises for around 45 minutes.
Ayodhya's Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Gaurav Grover, affirmed that comprehensive security and administrative measures were implemented to ensure the success of the high-profile visit. He stated that the district administration and police officers conducted thorough site inspections and completed all necessary arrangements. The entire itinerary, from the VIP's arrival at the airport to their departure, was meticulously planned. A cleanliness drive was also launched across Ayodhya.
The visit is part of Ramgoolam's state visit to India from September 9 to September 16. On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Ramgoolam to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional matters, and global issues. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, digital technology, energy, and maritime security. During the meeting, seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed across diverse sectors, including science and technology, oceanography, public administration, power, small development projects, hydrography, and space cooperation.
The Ayodhya District Magistrate, Nikhil Tikaram Funde, confirmed the visit, emphasizing the red-carpet welcome that would be extended to the Mauritius PM, showcasing glimpses of Indian culture.