Final Homecoming for Seggae Icon Ras Natty Baby

The mortal remains of seggae pioneer Ras Natty Baby returned to Mauritian soil on Thursday 30 April, marking the beginning of a final journey for the artist often compared to legends like Kaya and Bob Marley.

The coffin of the singer—born Joseph Nicolas Emilien—touched down at SSR International Airport at 2:30 pm, where it was met by a wave of raw emotion from family, friends, and fellow artists.

A Hero’s Escort

Following his arrival, a funeral procession departed the airport at 3:30 pm under a popular escort.

Fans lined the route, brandishing the iconic red, yellow, and green colours of the seggae movement to honour the Rodrigues-born musician.

The atmosphere was described as one of profound respect and sadness as the convoy made its way toward his residence.

Official Tributes

The procession arrived at the singer’s home in Richelieu at 7:45 pm, where the air was filled with the sounds of his hit “Dans avek mo lamizik.”

Among those gathered to pay their respects were:

• Véronique Leu-Govind, Junior Minister of Arts and Culture.
• Varock Ravina, Rodrigues Commissioner for Arts and Culture.

A Legacy of Strength

Speaking to those gathered, his daughter, Marga Emilien, shared moving words about her father’s character, describing him as a strong man who refused to let his illness define his final days.

Tributes are set to continue this Friday, 1 May, from 10:30 am in Petite-Rivière, as the nation says its final goodbye to one of its most influential musical voices.

Source: l’Express