To commemorate the birthday of Confucius and promote China’s outstanding traditional culture, the Confucius Institute at the University of Mauritius held the “Confucius Day” event on the 12th September 2025. The event drew a large crowd of students, University staff, and the public. In a warm and festive atmosphere, Chinese culture was vividly showcased, deepening mutual understanding and cultural exchange between China and Mauritius.
The event held on this special day was rich and diverse, combining both fun and interactivity. Upon entering the hall, visitors were immediately drawn to a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at the entrance. The performer’s graceful and fluid movements captivated the audience, which included washing the cups, warming the pot, rinsing the tea, and finally pouring the tea. The volunteer teacher introduced different types of Chinese tea and shared knowledge about tea culture, warmly inviting guests to take a seat and enjoy a cup of tea together.
The art of tea ceremony captivated the audience
Participants eagerly tried out the traditional Chinese folk art with the guidance of the volunteer teachers at the paper-cutting DIY station. After learning about various paper-cutting patterns and their auspicious meanings, everyone carefully chose their favourite design and completed it with a mix of concentration and delight.
Audience enjoying the paper-cutting activity
The demonstrations by Confucius Institute teachers at the calligraphy and painting area drew the largest crowd. Initially, visitors were simply curious about the Xuan paper, brushes, and ink stones. As the demonstrations began, the calligraphy teacher completed an elegant work in regular script, while the painting teacher, with a few light strokes, painted a delicate and lively plum blossom. Inspired, many onlookers requested to try calligraphy and ink painting themselves. Through the flow of the brush and the charm of ink, participants experienced firsthand the unique beauty of Chinese art.
The charm of Chinese calligraphy and painting
The Chinese Kung Fu section was also a major highlight. The instructor performed a dazzling nunchaku routine — spinning, circling, striking, and thrusting in one smooth motion — powerful yet rhythmic, earning rounds of applause. Following the nunchaku performance, a traditional Chinese health exercise “Ba Duan Jin” was demonstrated by the teacher and student. Accompanied by soft traditional music, their movements were calm yet full of strength, reflecting the harmony of body and mind. After the performance, many attendees surrounded the instructor to enquire about upcoming martial arts classes.
Chinese Kung Fu: a balance of strength and grace
The Hanfu showcase became a favourite spot for photo enthusiasts. Participants had the chance to experience the elegance of traditional Chinese clothing. With the help of volunteer teachers, they patiently selected their preferred Hanfu style, learned about the cultural meanings behind the garments, and posed for photos holding silk umbrellas, lanterns, and fans. Many mentioned that they got a chance to learn about Chinese attire and also created lasting memories of this beautiful cultural experience.
Discovering the beauty of traditional Chinese clothing
Furthermore, Confucius-themed quizzes were held throughout the event, which added excitement to the day. Hosted by the local director of the Confucius Institute, questions about Confucius’ life and teachings were asked every five minutes. The lively Q&A session deepened the participants’ understanding of Confucius, Confucianism, and traditional Chinese culture, while bringing the event’s atmosphere to a joyful climax.
Enthusiastic participation in the Confucius knowledge quiz
Through this “Confucius Day” event celebration, Mauritian participants gained a more vivid and direct understanding of the richness and timeless charm of Chinese culture.
The Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute also stated that the successful organisation of this event fully demonstrated the Institute’s important role in promoting cultural exchange and mutual learning between China and Mauritius. It has injected new vitality into the friendship between the two nations and opened a new chapter of people-to-people connection.