Mauritius Minister Mahendra Gondeea on Monday said he felt fortunate to visit Ayodhya Temple in Uttar Pradesh and offer his prayers to Lord Ram, the Hindu deity.

After visiting the iconic temple, which was inaugurated last year, the minister told ANI: "I came to Ram Mandir and went to all three places. I did the puja and Ram Mandir is very big. The construction has not been completed yet."

"But when it is done, I think it will be the best temple in the world. This is my good fortune. I came here after a year. It's been a year since I came here. There were many people there. I am extremely happy that I have taken part in this. This Ram Mandir is developing well. People around the world will see its development," he said.

He expressed sadness over missing the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

He said he could not attend the event since he will be returning to his nation for some urgent works.

He was visiting India to attend the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar.

A large number of devotees from across the globe are expected to attend the 45-day Kumbh Mela which began on Monday amid tight security.

The fair will continue from January 13 to February 26.