Arts, Culture and Entertainment: The Cultural Awakening of Mauritius in 2026

2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for the Mauritian arts scene. With renewed ambition from the Le Défi Media group through thematic fairs organized by Events Plus and the community engagement of Radio Plus, entertainment is now intertwined with social utility. As the Ministry of Arts and Culture implements fundamental reforms to structure the industry, local stages are set to resonate with international concerts, new comedies, and a thriving film industry. From the humor of Ahmed Sylla to the philharmonic sounds of London, this year promises to enchant the daily lives of Mauritians.

Events Plus is set to offer seven thematic fairs in 2026, aiming to provide more choices and novelties for Mauritians, especially with promotional prices on home and garden products, airline tickets, new cars, and more.

Bruno La Charmante, director of Events Plus, states, "2026 promises to be rich and filled, as we will present seven thematic fairs to best meet the demands of Mauritians."

The Grand Home and Garden Fair will kick off on February 7, 8, and 9 at the SVICC in Pailles, featuring a variety of discounted products for every room in the house and highlighting the garden.

The fair will be open from 10 AM to 7 PM on Friday and Saturday, and from 10 AM to 6 PM on Sunday, with entry priced at Rs 25 and free for children under 12. Free shuttles will transport attendees from Rose-Hill and Victoria stations.

Radio Plus is also gearing up for 2026, focusing on community entertainment and social engagement under the leadership of station director Venen Coolen. The station aims to transform the FIFA World Cup into a major celebration in Mauritius while leveraging sports as a tool for social change.

Furthermore, the popular show "Explik ou Cas" will venture out of the studio to engage directly with the public, fostering a dialogue to address community issues.

In a bid to strengthen its ties with local artists, Radio Plus plans to enhance collaborations, while listeners can look forward to new leisure programming on TéléPlus.

Minister Mahendra Gondeea is committed to a profound cultural transformation, emphasizing that culture is the soul of the nation. With significant reforms underway, including the reopening of the Serge Constantin Theatre, 2026 will be marked by the introduction of a Culture Desk to streamline access to funding and permits for creators.

The Mauritius Film Development Corporation (MFDC) anticipates significant growth, aiming to attract major international productions that could inject Rs 9 billion into the local economy. Initiatives like "Sinema dan Vilaz" aim to bring film to remote areas, while the MFDC plans to introduce a comprehensive official registration system for industry professionals.

In the realm of music, artists like Désiré François and Cassiya will perform live, while Bilygane will release his debut album, "Attentat," addressing social issues. The Bhojpuri Boys are also set to return with new singles, blending their heritage with contemporary sounds.

The year 2026 also heralds the release of poignant films like Sada Rajiah's "Mamou," based on a true story, highlighting the emotional bonds of family in the face of adversity.

Mauritius is poised for a cultural renaissance in 2026, where arts, community engagement, and entertainment will converge to enrich the lives of its citizens.