Following the abolition of slavery in Mauritius during 1835, plantation owners faced a massive workforce shortage that led to the recruitment of contracted laborers. The majority of these workers originated from India, beginning with the arrival of the first group on November 2, 1834. Their processing hub at Trou Fanfaron was eventually recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site known as Aapravasi Ghat. Today, an official holiday commemorates this historic date to honor the enduring cultural legacy and societal contributions of the Indian population.