The cavadee frame is an arch made of wood or bamboo, beautifully decorated with flowers, fruits and brightly coloured threads. Devotees balance the frame on their shoulders and walk barefoot through the streets in a procession that can go on for many hours. The whole event is accompanied by music, chanting and the sound of drums.
Cavadee is celebrated in January or February, and the whole island is caught up in the spirit of the occasion. Even people who do not take part come out to watch the processions and enjoy the colour and sound. Schools often teach children about the festival so they understand what their classmates and neighbours are celebrating.
Mauritius is a country where many different communities live side by side — Tamil, Hindu, Muslim, Creole, Chinese, French — and festivals like Cavadee are shared joyfully. People from all backgrounds join in watching, taking photographs and admiring the beautiful decorations. It is one of the things Mauritians are most proud of about their island: the way different communities celebrate together.