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GRAND BASSIN, MAURITIUS, March 10, 2002: Since last Thursday, March 7, Maha Sivaratri pilgrims have begun their long walk towards the sacred lake here known as Ganga Talao. Most of these pilgrims are from the north of the island, which is the farthest point from the sacred lake. Devotees who live closer to the lake will begin their walk in the days to come. Drivers are urged to use caution to avoid pilgrims walking at night on the main road to the southern mountain shrine. The organizers of the event estimate that there will be not less 400,000 pilgrims this year participating in the pilgrimage. Lots of preparation this year will ensure that pilgrims benefit from better traffic control, improved lighting, and improvements on the banks surrounding the sacred lake. Extra police will be stationed along the pilgrimage route to assure the safety of the pilgrims. At the initiative of the Human Service Trust, the leaders of Hindu corporations of the country, notably those of the Hindu Maha Sabha, the Hindu House, the Mauritius Andhra Maha Sabha, the Mauritius Marathi Mandali Federation, the Voice of Hindu, among others, have grouped together their efforts to prepare for the Maha Sivaratri celebration. The great festival in honor of Lord Siva is celebrated around the world by devotees who worship Him throughout the night. This year it happens to fall on Mauritius Independence Day.

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