- 1928Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun LH G.O.S.K (1928 - 2013)
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun was a prominent figure in the political landscape of Mauritius, having served as a minister in various portfolios for over two decades. However, his life was not limited to politics alone. He was also a highly accomplished medical practitioner who had studied in France and worked in Paris and Morocco before returning to his homeland.
Early life…
Born on 14th January 1928 in St. Julien Village, he attended St. Julien Government School for primary education and New Eton College for secondary education. After completing his secondary education, he went to France in 1952 to pursue medical studies at the Faculté de médecine de Bordeaux from 1952 to 1955. He then attended the Faculté de médicine de Paris from 1955 to 1956 before returning to Mauritius.Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun got married to Dr. Prabhavathi Venkatasamy (pathologist) on the 14th November 1966. Dr Prabhavathi was the first Laureate of Queen Elizabeth College and then went to University college -Dublin for her medical studies.
- Political Involvement1960
Upon his return, Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun joined the Mauritius Labour Party in 1960 and played a key role in the country's independence. He was nominated as a Member of the Legislative Council on 11th November 1963, a position he held until 10 December of the same year. He was again nominated to serve as a Member of the Legislative Assembly on 16th March 1965 and was appointed Minister of Social Security on 23 November of the same year, a post he held until August 1967.
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun’s brother Sir Rabindrah Ghurburrun (1928–2008) was the first Vice President of Mauritius from 1992 to 1997.
He started his political career as a member of the Mauritius Labour Party. However, he was appointed by the Mauritian Militant Movement-Militant Socialist Movement coalition government as vice president while the Labour Party was in the opposition.
A lawyer by profession, he did a diploma at the University of Oxford. He was also the first High Commissioner of Mauritius to India. Then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi described him as behaving like the last Maharaja of India.He died at the age of 79 in Paris. - 1965Emergence as a political and social activist…
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun served in a number of other ministerial positions throughout his political career, including being appointed as Deputy Prime Minister in the early 80’s.
- Minister of Social Security (1965 - 1968)1965
Nominated as Member of the Legislative Assembly on 16th March 1965 and was appointed Minister of Social Security on 23 November 1965. Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun dedication to public service was not limited to his political career alone.
- 1965Gandhi Breedh Ashram - Petit Raffray
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun was not only a dedicated professional but also a socially responsible individual. He actively participated in various social work initiatives and made significant contributions to charitable institutions. One such institution he constructed was the Gandhi Breedh Ashram in Petit Raffray, where he played a pivotal role in supporting their noble cause.
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun philanthropic efforts were commendable, and he believed in giving back to society. He understood the importance of social responsibility and worked tirelessly towards making a positive impact on society. His contributions to charitable institutions like the Gandhi Breedh Ashram have helped many underprivileged individuals and families.
- Minister of Commerce and Industry (1968-1969)1968
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun served as the Minister of Commerce and Industry from June 1968 to November 1969. During his tenure, he implemented several policies that contributed to the growth of the sector and the overall economy. Dr. Ghurburrun's contributions to the development of commerce and industry in his country are still remembered today.
- 1969Minister of Communications (1969-1971)
In December 1969, a significant shift occurred in the career of an esteemed individual. It was during this time that he was bestowed with the honorable title of Minister of Communications. This prestigious appointment marked a turning point in his professional journey, as he took on the responsibility of overseeing and managing the intricate realm of communications.
For a period spanning from December 1969 to June 1971, Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun diligently served in this esteemed position. His tenure as Minister of Communications was characterized by unwavering dedication, astute decision-making, and a commitment to fostering effective communication channels within the nation.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative policies, he ensured that the nation remained at the forefront of technological progress in the realm of communications.
- Officier de l’ordre National Malgache1969
- 1971Minister of Labour and Social Security (1974-1976)
In October 1971, Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun was bestowed with the prestigious position of Minister of Labour and Social Security. This appointment marked a turning point in the history of our nation, as his expertise and passion for social welfare became the driving force behind transformative policies.
With a keen understanding of the intricate dynamics of labour and social security, Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrunn embarked on a mission to create a more equitable society. His visionary leadership paved the way for significant reforms that aimed to uplift the lives of countless individuals. Under his guidance, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security became a beacon of hope, tirelessly working towards ensuring fair working conditions, promoting employment opportunities, and safeguarding the rights of workers.
- Minister of Labour and Industrial Relations (1974-1976)1974
He served as the Minister of Labour and Industrial Relations from March 1974 to May 1976, a period marked by significant changes in the country's socio-economic fabric.
As the Minister of Labour, Dr. Beergonath Ghurburrun played a pivotal role in shaping policies that aimed to improve the working conditions of the labour force.
During his tenure, Dr. Ghurburrun also focused on promoting industrial growth in Mauritius. He encouraged foreign investment and implemented policies that facilitated the establishment of new industries. His efforts paved the way for the country's economic transformation, which saw it evolve from an agricultural-based economy to a diversified one.
- 1979Minister of Health (1979-1984)
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun contributions to politics were not limited to these posts alone. He stood as a candidate for the 1976 and 1982 General Elections. However, in November 1979, He was nominated to replace late hon. Mahesh Teelock and became Minister of Health from January 1980 to June 1982.
- Minister of Economic Planning and Development (1984-1991)1984
During his tenure as Minister of Economic Planning and Development from March 1984 to August 1987, the country underwent a successful reform that resulted in a rapid growth of the economy. This achievement was recognized by the Economic Development Institute of The World Bank in their report 9089, authored by Ravi Gulhati and Raj Nallari. The Minister's leadership and strategic vision played a pivotal role in this accomplishment, and his efforts have left a lasting impact on the country's economic landscape.
- 1990Officier de la Légion d’Honneur
Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun life was one dedicated to medicine and politics, and his contributions to both fields have left an indelible mark in Mauritius. He retired from active politics after serving as Deputy Prime Minister. Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun has instilled projects and hobbies that project his ethos and dedication to helping the community through several projects that are now directed by his daughter Ms. Nishtha. Such as the partnership with the Global Rainbow Foundation, looking to support and aid the less fortunate through the provision of prosthetics and rehabilitation facilities, enabling and supporting normal life for all. Protruding from his old people’s home and through the continued work of his daughter Nishtha, championing the wellbeing of people.
Photography has been a shared passion within the Ghurburrun family, with Dr. Beergoonath Ghurburrun passing down his love for the art form to his daughter, Ms. Nishtha. What began as a mentorship has now blossomed into Ms. Nishtha’s own fervent passion. In wellness and through the knowledge of Circadian Rhythms for humans, we harness energy in line with the Sun, the core of the photographical adventures of Ms. Nishtha. Furthermore, originally starting out as a meditation centre for those seeking to distance themselves from the noisy world, now evolved as Samayapuram Mariamman Devasthanam Petit Raffray, Mauritius. The ‘Kovil’ aims to provide a sanctuary for everyone seeking to connect with their faith for the almighty. A place for all to connect with like minded people or learn of different mindsets all in harmony and all together working to provide support to the neighbouring community.