Passed Away in India on Sunday - Ras Natty Baby: An Official Honor Was Planned for May
In tribute to a "sincere and committed voice," Minister Mahendra Gondeea revealed that an official ceremony was set to honor the artist next month. Navin Ramgoolam also paid tribute to his resilience.
The local music scene is mourning the loss of seggae icon Ras Natty Baby, born Joseph Nicolas Emilien, who passed away on Sunday, April 26, in India. Arts and Culture Minister Mahendra Gondeea praised the memory of an artist whose commitment has left a mark on the history of Mauritian music. He also announced that an award to honor his contributions to local music was already being prepared before his passing.
According to Minister Mahendra Gondeea, Ras Natty Baby's departure leaves a huge void. More than just a performer, the artist was a flagbearer of deep social realities. "Ras Natty Baby was not merely an artist; he was a sincere and engaged voice. Through seggae, he expressed the reality, struggles, and hopes of our country," the minister stated.
He emphasized that the strength of the man lay in his ability to transform his melodies into life stories: "I remember him as a man who did not just sing: he told stories, denounced issues, and, above all, brought people together." The Arts and Culture Minister clarified that recognition of the artist's work was already in the works. An official decision to honor his contributions to local music had been approved by his ministry well before this tragic outcome. "This award was part of our desire to honor his work and rightful place in our country’s cultural heritage. A ceremony was indeed planned for next month." It is worth noting that other figures from the artistic community will also receive awards during this recognition ceremony.
Moreover, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam paid tribute to the artist by posting a message on his official page, stating: "It is with immense sadness that I learned of Ras Natty Baby's passing. I remember our conversation on April 8, when he was in the hospital. Despite his suffering, he exuded a rare strength and serenity. Ras Natty Baby was much more than an artist; he was a voice, a conscience, a symbol of peace, resilience, and unity. Through his music and convictions, he impacted an entire generation and will continue to inspire for a long time. My sincerest thoughts go out to his family, loved ones, and all who cherished him."
Arrears and Solidarity: MASA Has Already Paid Rs 203,000 to the Artist
Reliable sources have informed us that the Mauritius Society of Authors (MASA) paid a total of Rs 203,000 to Ras Natty Baby during April. This amount includes Rs 153,000 in arrears on his monthly artist pension, along with a solidarity contribution of Rs 50,000 from the organization. The decision, approved by MASA on April 9, was followed by a transfer to the singer’s bank account. According to our information, this outcome followed an amicable agreement reached between the artist and MASA.
The State Will Handle the Repatriation
The government has initiated official procedures for the repatriation of the seggae legend's remains. Authorities have clarified that no financial contributions from the public are being solicited for this operation.
"All steps have been taken to repatriate Ras Natty Baby’s remains as quickly as possible. We ask the public not to initiate or contribute to fundraising for the repatriation," explains Véronique Leu-Govind, Junior Minister at the Ministry of Arts and Culture.
According to Véronique Leu-Govind, the authorities' priority is now to allow the nation to pay their last respects. The success of this process relies on close collaboration among various state services. The Junior Minister stated that other ministries (Health and Foreign Affairs) are providing support, as is the Prime Minister's Office.
