Singapore’s Little India goes hybrid with Deepavali lights on-site and performances and shopping on-line

Singapore’s Little India officiated its annual light for Deepavali 2020 with an official opening ceremony on October 3.  

Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association (LiSHA) has organised the official light up as it has for many years, with the support of the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB). 

Deepavali street light-up with DPM Heng Swee Keat, Minister S Iswaran, Mayor Denise Phua Lay Peng, MOS Alvin Tan and LiSHA Chairman Rajakumar Chandra. Photo Courtesy: DPM Heng Swee Keat/ FB

Deepavali falls on 14th November this year as per the Hindu almanac and the light up will continue till December 6 2020.

DPM, Heng Swee Keat and Min S. Iswaran at the official inauguration of the Deepavali Lights at Singapore's Little India. Photo Courtesy: S.Iswaran/FB

Goddess Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth in Hindu mythology, features on the main arch at Serangoon road which also showcases elephants. 

Goddess Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth in Hindu mythology flanked by two elephants and peacocks features on the main arch. Photo: Connected to India 

With peacocks at every few intervals the colourful light decorates the streets and welcomes visitors along Serangoon Road  as well as on the Sungei Road junctions.

The beautiful light-up display, which starts at the junction of Serangoon Road and Sungei Road captioned Min S. Iswaran. Photo Courtesy: S.Iswaran/FB

The festive lights around Little India, carrying the common theme of light triumphing over darkness, bring hope that Deepavali this year may bring happiness to all during these difficult times and was relayed LIVE on Facebook.  

With the pandemic affecting celebratory gatherings and family visits, visitors can look out for other activities to enjoy Deepavali this year while observing social distancing in smaller groups.  Community leaders too have come together with the temples and industry partners to support those in need during this trying period.  

Photo: Connected to India

These activities include a virtual live retelling of Deepavali story in English on 7th November, 7pm in various spots across Little India, a virtual countdown concert on 13th November and a Rangoli Art installation on Hindoo Road made by artist Vijaya Mohan.

Colourful drama, Dheebam, a live retelling of the Deepavali Story performed in English is going virtual this year. Photo Courtesy: LISHA/FB

Visitors can also enjoy the Deepavali Festival Village online this year through LISHA’s Facebook page from 10th October to 10th November 2020 along with a Mega Deepavali Online show on 14th November 2020 from 10am to 12pm, featuring a new Deepavali community song which has been produced in Singapore along with other performances by local celebrities. 

While Campbell lane is missing the crowds enjoying the festive market charm this year, many shopkeepers, merchants and businesses are organising e-bazaars so families can indulge in some festive shopping without leaving the comfort of our homes!