Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency: We take great pleasure in thanking you to cover and participate in this distinguished cultural and intellectual programme titled "Geet Gawai - The Chord and Spirit of the Girminyas of Mauritius", scheduled to be held on 14 January 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Press Club Kolkata.
The programme seeks to celebrate and reflect upon the rich cultural legacy of the Girmitiya community of Mauritius, with special focus on Geet Gawai, a traditional art form that has served as a living cultural bridge between India and the Indian diaspora in Mauritius. The event will explore themes of cultural continuity, identity, and heritage preserved across generations, particularly highlighting Eastern India's historical connection, as many indentured labourers embarked on their journeys from Kolkata.
Pictures by Bibhash Lodh/BS News Agency.
The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Sarita Boodhoo, a renowned cultural scholar and thought leader from Mauritius. Her seminal work on Geet Gawai has been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, and she is also the author of the acclaimed book Kanya Daan. This visit is part of her personal initiative and commitment, undertaken in her private capacity, to strengthen cultural ties between India and Mauritius, with particular emphasis on Eastern India. The programme will also be attended by Mr. Kapil Kaul, representing the Office of the Honorary Consulate of Mauritius in Kolkata, and Mr. Bebeto Ally (Quazi Tarique A Ally), Chairman, Aerorotors Aircrafts Research & Development Private Limited, Mr Ally is also the Member of Governing body of STEP IIT Kharagpur.
The event is supported by Aerorotors Aircrafts Research & Development Private Limited, a deep-tech aerospace startup incubated at the Science & Technology Entrepreneurs Park (STEP), IIT Kharagpur, as part of its commitment to promoting cultural, intellectual, and knowledge-driven engagements alongside technological innovation.