Core areas of Rodrigues Island host charming cultural sites, which are a part of our much-treasured legacy. These locations enhance the cultural identity while also adding value to the area and makes Rodrigues as an even more inviting travel destination. Tourists’ visit to these historical sites bring a substantial contribution to the island’s economy. Paying an additional price to visit the sites, ensures that the valuable historical sites and assets are better preserved.
The Rodriguan authorities are deeply conscious and concerned about the need to preserve the cultural sites for the future generations. Here in Rodrigues, The Commission for Arts and Culture is responsible for enforcing the laws and measures to ensure preservation of these sites.
Rodrigues Island can boast of a rich cultural heritage that reflects its history of colonisation, slavery, and immigration. Here are some aspects of culture and heritage in Rodrigues:
Language
Language plays a significant role in the cultural identity of Rodrigues Island. The primary language spoken by most of the population is Rodriguan Creole; a French-based creole language which consists of some African and English words. Many creole languages just Rodriguan Creole have originated from interactions of different linguistic and cultural groups, including African, European, Indian, and Chinese influences.
French and English are also widely spoken and understood on the island. French, as a legacy of colonial rule, holds official status and is used in government, education, and formal settings. English is commonly used in business, tourism, and international communication. Many Rodriguans are bilingual or even trilingual that is they are proficient in Rodriguan Creole, French, and English.
Rodriguan Creole, however, is the language of daily communication among Rodriguan people. It reflects the island's multicultural heritage and serves as a marker of identity for its inhabitants. Rodriguan Creole has its own unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, distinguishing it from other creole languages spoken in the region.
Despite the dominance of Rodriguan Creole in informal settings, efforts are made to promote proficiency in French and English, particularly in education, to ensure access to broader opportunities and facilitate communication beyond the island. However, Rodriguan Creole remains deeply ingrained in the island's cultural fabric, serving as a symbol of Rodrigues' distinct identity and heritage.
Traditional Music and Dance
The inhabitants of the island trace their origins to the descendants of slaves from Madagascar and Africa, settlers from Europe and a few Indians or Chinese who arrived in Mauritius then headed to Rodrigues. The essential elements of Rodrigues culture are the music and dance, the fruit of a mixture of these multicultural heritages. The sega drum (sega tambour) is the oldest musical form born from the mode of expression of the first black slaves evoking the resistance and rebellion of their condition. Music, singing and dancing go hand in hand. This art facilitated conflict resolution and promoted socialization. The rhythm is fast and the sounds resemble African rhythms. Traditional instruments which, at first, were rudimentary, a piece of metal or a stretched animal skin, have been transformed over time to become a little more modern. Thus, they were replaced by the triangle, the drum (wooden hoop covered with goat skin), the ‘bobre’ (a wooden percussion instrument), the mallets (two pieces of wood that are rubbed against one another).
The sega drum has been classified as a UNESCO intangible heritage of humanity since 2017. More than a symbol, it is the soul of Rodrigues and it is passed down from generation to generation. The community centres regularly welcome rehearsals and competitions. It is also part of tourist activities, which allows travelers to discover this entrancing cultural asset and learn some steps from the amazing performers. The ‘Ségakordéon’, as its name suggests, is played with the diatonic accordion inherited from the French colonists. History traces its origin back to the 19th century, where the energetic rhythm of an African character mixed with traditional European styles.
Cuisine
Rodriguan cuisine is influenced by the island's diverse population and includes a blend of African, French, Indian, and Chinese flavours. Seafood dishes are popular, given the island's positioning and generous lagoon. Some traditional dishes include octopus curry, grilled fish, and coconut-based desserts.
Rodriguan gastronomy has its own culinary identity. Cuisine is an art of living that reflects all the flavours from the different influences. Local products, grown, fished or produced by livestock, are favoured. “Diri may”, a mixture of rice and corn, is typical of the island. Seafood such as kono kono ( a shell) or ourite (octopus) occupies an important place in traditional dishes, as do red kidney beans, corn, chili, pork, sausages and poultry which are widely used in different recipes. Many pastries such as the famous Rodriguan pie are the pride of the island but also corn pudding or sweet potato cake. At the market, women entrepreneurs sell their production of pickles, honey and homemade jams made from tropical fruits in small pots.
Crafts and Art
Rodrigues is also known for its traditional handicrafts, including woven items like baskets, hats, and mats made from local materials such as palm leaves and bamboo. Local artisans also create decorative items like wooden sculptures and pottery, often showcasing intricate designs and motifs.
As for its crafts, it focuses on the weaving of Vacoas and Vetiver which is found on the island and used for the manufacture of baskets and hats. Objects of all sorts made from coconut are also available on the local market. The local know-how allows travellers to bring back home lovely gifts and souvenirs from Rodrigues.
Traditional Clothing
Traditional Rodriguan attires often includes brightly coloured fabrics and garments, reflecting the island's vibrant culture. Women may wear colourful dresses with floral patterns, while men may opt for shirts and trousers made from lightweight fabrics suitable for the tropical climate.
Historical Sites
Rodrigues has several historical sites and landmarks that offer insights into its colonial past. These include old colonial buildings, forts, and ruins dating back to the French and British colonial periods.
The management of the historical heritage of Rodrigues falls within the primary objectives of the Commission for Arts and Culture. The Commission works in close collaboration with the National Heritage Fund of Mauritius with respect to the protection of our heritage inherited from our ancestors. Presently, six sites in Rodrigues are listed as National Heritage.
Creole Festival
The Creole festival, first week of December this day is rich in cultural activities to celebrate Creole lifestyle. During that week, locals and foreigners can enjoy canoe regatta, concerts, stories, Creole poetry, sega drum competition and exhibition and sale of local products and works of art.
Overall, Rodrigues Island's culture and heritage are a testament to its unique blend of influences, resulting in a vibrant and diverse community with a rich cultural tapestry.