Mauritius, with its stunning beaches, diverse cultures, and welcoming people, is an incredible place to live or visit. However, for Jewish individuals and families, maintaining a traditional Jewish lifestyle on this remote island can present both challenges and opportunities.
While Mauritius does not have a large Jewish community, there are ways to keep Jewish traditions alive, from Shabbat celebrations to finding kosher food and observing holidays. Whether you’re a resident, an expatriate, or a tourist, here’s how you can live your Jewish identity in Mauritius.
Practicing Judaism in Mauritius
Despite the absence of a large Jewish population, Mauritius offers several ways to stay connected to Jewish traditions and spirituality.
Chabad of Mauritius: A Hub for Jewish Life
The Chabad Center of Mauritius, led by Rabbi Eliyahu Raskin, serves as a central meeting point for Jewish residents and visitors. It provides:
Shabbat and holiday services
Kosher meals and catering
Jewish education and Torah study
Community events and celebrations
Celebrating Shabbat & Holidays
While Mauritius does not have a traditional synagogue, Shabbat and Jewish holidays can still be celebrated in a meaningful way.
Where to Celebrate Shabbat?
- At Chabad: Weekly Shabbat meals and prayers.
- At Home or in a Hotel: You can light Shabbat candles, say Kiddush, and enjoy a quiet Shabbat dinner.
Jewish Holidays in Mauritius
- Passover: Join the public Seder at Chabad or order kosher-for-Passover meals.
- Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur: Attend services with Chabad and hear the Shofar blowing.
- Sukkot: Eat in a kosher sukkah provided by Chabad.
- Hanukkah: Participate in the public Menorah lighting and enjoy holiday festivities.
Keeping Kosher in Mauritius
Finding kosher food can be challenging in a place without a dedicated kosher supermarket, but it is possible with some planning.
Jewish Education & Raising a Jewish Family
For Jewish families in Mauritius, education and religious learning require creative solutions.
Options for Jewish Learning
- Chabad’s Torah Classes: Weekly Torah study and discussions.
- Online Jewish Schools: Parents often enroll children in virtual Jewish programs.
- Jewish Books & Resources: Families order Jewish books, mezuzahs, and religious items online.
Jewish Weddings, Bar Mitzvahs & Life Events
Jewish Weddings in Mauritius
Mauritius is a dream destination for a Jewish wedding under the chuppah. Many couples choose:
Luxury resorts with kosher catering.
Beachfront ceremonies with a rabbi.
Personalized Jewish wedding services via Chabad.
Bar & Bat Mitzvah Celebrations
Families celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah can arrange:
Torah reading & blessings at Chabad.
Festive kosher meals.
Scenic outdoor celebrations.
Living a Jewish life in Mauritius requires adaptation, planning, and community support, but it is entirely possible. With Chabad’s assistance, kosher options, and online Jewish resources, you can maintain Jewish traditions while enjoying life in this beautiful paradise.
Whether you’re staying short-term or long-term, Mauritius offers a peaceful and inspiring environment to celebrate your Jewish identity.
