First Prime Minister
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam
First Prime Minister of Mauritius (1968). Grandson of Girmitiya labourers. Known as the 'Father of the Nation'.
Mauritius
(Indian Ocean)
From 1834, the 'Great Experiment' began here, the world's first and largest Girmitiya destination.
Mauritius was the first colony to receive Indian indentured labourers under the Girmitiya system (1834 to 1917). Nearly 453,063 workers arrived between 1834 and 1900, fundamentally shaping the island's demographics and culture. Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking this legacy.
Major Historical Events
1834
Ship Atlas arrived, the world's first organised indentured voyage. The 'Great Experiment' began in Port Louis.
1838
Over 25,000 Indians sent within four years. More than 17% died on the journey from cholera, dysentery, and overcrowding.
1849
Aapravasi Ghat (Immigration Depot) built in Port Louis, later a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2006).
1872
Investigation commission exposed systematic exploitation, beatings, low wages, and denial of medical care.
1900
By 1900, a total of 453,063 Girmitiya labourers had arrived, the largest volume under indenture.
1968
Independence achieved. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, a descendant of Girmitiyas, became the first Prime Minister.
From 1834, the 'Great Experiment' began here, the world's first and largest Girmitiya destination.
Mauritius was the first colony to receive Indian indentured labourers under the Girmitiya system (1834 to 1917). Nearly 453,063 workers arrived between 1834 and 1900, fundamentally shaping the island's demographics and culture. Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking this legacy.
Major Historical Events
1834
Ship Atlas arrived, the world's first organised indentured voyage. The 'Great Experiment' began in Port Louis.
1838
Over 25,000 Indians sent within four years. More than 17% died on the journey from cholera, dysentery, and overcrowding.
1849
Aapravasi Ghat (Immigration Depot) built in Port Louis, later a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2006).
1872
Investigation commission exposed systematic exploitation, beatings, low wages, and denial of medical care.
1900
By 1900, a total of 453,063 Girmitiya labourers had arrived, the largest volume under indenture.
1968
Independence achieved. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, a descendant of Girmitiyas, became the first Prime Minister.
1834 to 1900
Period
453,063
Total Arrivals
Indian Ocean
Region
Key Girmitiya Figures