PORT LOUIS, Mauritius,June 6, 2025 : In a vibrant moment for this island nation, actor and visionary Suchhi Kumar
has embarked on a transformative mission to elevate Mauritius as a global hub
for art, culture, film, and tourism. During his recent visit, Kumar expressed
profound gratitude to Mauritius’ President Dharam Gokhool, Prime Minister
Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and the nation’s citizens for their unwavering faith in
his ambitious vision. His heartfelt appreciation extended especially to Lady
Veena Ramgoolam, whose presence at key events underscored the government’s
commitment to cultural advancement.
Kumar’s
visit, marked by high-profile engagements with Mauritius’ most influential
figures, signals a cultural renaissance for the island. His initiatives,
including a proposed film city and efforts to position Mauritius as a premier
destination for lavish weddings, aim to harness the nation’s natural beauty and
deep cultural ties with India. “This is a moment of history and a personal
honor,” Kumar wrote on social media, reflecting on the warm reception and
support from Mauritius’ leadership and its people.
Among
the luminaries Kumar met was Reza Saumtally, a prominent philanthropist whose
contributions to Mauritius’ underprivileged communities have garnered
widespread acclaim. Saumtally’s selfless deeds, particularly his support for
those in marginalized areas, have frequently made headlines in both local and
international press. His financial contributions, derived from his successful
business ventures, have provided critical aid to the needy, earning him a
revered place in Mauritian society. Kumar praised Saumtally’s generosity as a
cornerstone of the nation’s social fabric, aligning it with his own vision of
cultural upliftment.
Kumar
also held discussions with the Honorable Mahendra Gondeea, OSK, the Minister of
Arts and Culture. Gondeea, a seasoned leader with a distinguished career as
Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor of Port Louis, brings a wealth of experience
to his role. His commitment to fostering Mauritius’ cultural heritage complements
Kumar’s aspirations, and their meeting underscored a shared dedication to
making the island a beacon of artistic excellence. Gondeea’s leadership is seen
as pivotal in bridging Kumar’s innovative projects with the nation’s cultural
framework.
The
visit included a meeting with Dr. Basant Banwari, Mauritius’ Education
Minister, whose efforts to advance educational initiatives align with Kumar’s
broader vision of cultural enrichment. Dr. Banwari’s role in shaping the
nation’s intellectual landscape provided a crucial backdrop to discussions on
integrating arts and education to inspire future generations.
Kumar
also connected with the Honorable Mookhesswur Choonee, a former Minister and
High Commissioner of Mauritius to India, and current Chairperson of GOPIO
International. Choonee’s diplomatic tenure strengthened India-Mauritius
relations, and his insights into fostering cultural exchanges were invaluable
to Kumar’s plans. Choonee’s advocacy for global cooperation, rooted in the
principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family), resonated
deeply with Kumar’s mission to forge international cultural ties.
Another
key figure in Kumar’s engagements was Dr. Vasant Kumar Bunwaree, a
distinguished cardiologist and Grand Officer of the Star and Key of the Indian
Ocean (GOSK). Dr. Bunwaree, who served as Minister of Arts and Culture for nine
years, brought a seasoned perspective to the discussions. His expertise in
blending cultural policy with national development enriched Kumar’s vision for
a film city and tourism initiatives that could drive economic growth while
celebrating Mauritius’ heritage.
The
highlight of Kumar’s visit was the launch of his novel, Once Upon a Time in Mauritius, attended by President Gokhool, Prime
Minister Ramgoolam, and Lady Veena Ramgoolam. The event, a testament to the
government’s endorsement of Kumar’s cultural endeavors, celebrated the island’s
rich history and vibrant spirit. Kumar’s novel, a literary ode to Mauritius,
has been hailed as a bridge between the nation’s past and its future as a
cultural powerhouse.
Kumar’s
vision extends beyond art and literature. His film city project aims to attract
global filmmakers, leveraging Mauritius’ stunning landscapes and cultural depth
to create a cinematic hub. Simultaneously, his push to establish Mauritius as a
top-tier wedding destination taps into its allure as a tropical paradise,
promising economic benefits through tourism. These initiatives, backed by the
nation’s leadership, position Mauritius to shine on the global stage.
As Kumar
concluded his visit, his gratitude to Mauritius’ leaders and citizens was
palpable. “Their faith in my vision is a driving force,” he said, pledging to
work tirelessly to realize a future where Mauritius stands as a global exemplar
of art, culture, and tourism. With the support of figures like Saumtally,
Gondeea, Banwari, Choonee, and Bunwaree, Kumar’s dream is poised to transform
the island’s cultural landscape, promising a legacy that will resonate for
generations.