Under the Christmas Tree: Personalities Share Their Emotions

"What is the most beautiful gift you have had the pleasure of giving or receiving in your life?" On this December 24th, it’s time for emotional reflection. From childhood memories to acts of pure generosity, several Mauritian personalities have agreed to open their hearts to us.

Shamima Patel: "Empathy, the Gift of the Soul"
For Shamima Patel, founder of the Breast Cancer Care association, the notion of a gift goes far beyond glittering displays and material possessions. For this compassionate woman, who has turned her own battle into a life mission, the most beautiful present cannot be bought; it is given with spirit.
"The greatest gift I have ever given to someone in my life is empathy," she confesses. As the world prepares to celebrate Christmas in opulence and excitement, Shamima Patel keeps her gaze turned towards those for whom the holidays pose a challenge. Behind the laughter and lights lies the silent reality of those who suffer, especially cancer patients for whom every day is a battle.
As a "cancer warrior," she knows that support is a compass in the storm.
"Being there for them, helping them through these unspeakable trials and instilling the strength not to give up... I believe this is the most beautiful gesture. There are people who are at the end of their courage, and a helping hand can change everything," emphasizes Shamima Patel.
Her journey facing illness has been the catalyst for an inner transformation. What could have been a tragedy has become a source of light through the creation of her association. These years of commitment have allowed her to meet incredible individuals, revealing the true essence of our existence on earth.
"One realizes the priceless value of life. Faced with the fragility of existence, material possessions lose all significance. At Christmas, the most beautiful gift remains our ability to give of ourselves, to offer a bit of peace to those who need it most."

Amrita Dyalah: "The Dictionary That Traced a Path of Light"
For artist and gallery owner Amrita Dyalah, the most precious memory is tied to the weight of knowledge. Her story takes us back to 1995.
"I remember a child from a very limited means family who needed a dictionary for his studies. His parents could not afford this purchase. So, I gave it to him," she recounts.
What was merely a classroom tool became the foundation of exemplary success. Years later, Amrita Dyalah had the joy of seeing that child, now an adult, hold a high-ranking position. "I feel immense pride thinking that this dictionary has surely helped him chart his path."

Eric Triton: "Giving a Guitar is Giving a Destiny"
For the virtuoso Eric Triton, the most beautiful gift never goes out of style and has six strings. This renowned musician, whose soul vibrates to the rhythm of his passion, has a favorite gift he loves to give children at Christmas: a guitar.
"The guitar is an incredible instrument. It has this dual virtue of offering us deep relaxation but also being a true means of livelihood," explains the artist.
In his eyes, mastering this instrument is assurance against adversity.
Puvana Sarma: "Breaking Loneliness Through the Magic of Sharing"
For teacher Puvana Sarma, the true magic of Christmas lies not in the gift itself but in the precious moment of human connection it creates. Last year, she experienced a moment that remains etched in her heart, an act of solidarity directed at the elderly.
Kate Foo Kune: The Ultimate Luxury of Rediscovered Presence
For badminton champion Kate Foo Kune, the most beautiful gift cannot be unwrapped; it is lived. After spending thirteen years traveling the world for her international career, she learned that distance is the greatest revealer of what is essential.
Rachel de Spéville: "Planting a Tree is Giving a Living Legacy"
Theater and cinema hold no secrets for Rachel de Spéville. Yet, when asked about the most beautiful gift she has given, the actress turns her gaze from the spotlight to the earth. Her cherished gift? A lychee tree, given four years ago.
Varun Nunkoo: "An Improvised Scenario of Generosity on a Street Corner"
For Mauritian filmmaker Varun Nunkoo, the most beautiful Christmas memory is not from a fictional script but from a real-life scene captured twelve years ago.
This is a celebration not only of gifts but of the very essence of human connection, generosity, and the memories that define us, reminding us that the greatest gifts are often those that cannot be wrapped.