Do you know the story about the victory of good over evil? Well, now it is time to experience the grandness of the Diwali festival in a place called Little India. However, nothing about this place is little. On the contrary, the festivities are palatial in size, leaving people in awe year after year. So, either tweak your plans or make new ones visit Little India during Diwali week to take a dip in the sea of culture. Here is the perfect guide to celebrating Diwali in Singapore with your friends and family.
What is Deepavali?
Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated across the world. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Traditionally, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after 14 years of exile and the triumph of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. During Deepavali, homes are beautifully illuminated with oil lamps and vibrant decorations, while families come together to share joy, feast on delicious food, and exchange gifts. The lighting of lamps is a key ritual that represents the removal of ignorance and the welcoming of prosperity and happiness.
When is Deepavali?
Deepavali typically falls between October and November, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, in Singapore, the celebrations will take place on October 31st and November 1st 2024. These days are marked by vibrant festivities, including temple visits, prayer offerings, and the bursting of colourful fireworks that light up the skies.
Who celebrates Deepavali?
In Singapore, Deepavali is most commonly recognised as a Hindu festival, celebrated with much fanfare by the Tamil community. However, it is also observed by the Sikh and Jain communities, each attaching their unique religious and cultural significance to the day. For Sikhs, Deepavali marks the release of their spiritual leader Guru Hargobind Ji from prison, while for Jains, it celebrates the moment Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. Deepavali is a public holiday in Singapore, and people of all races and religions join in the festivities, enjoying the lively atmosphere of Little India and its stunning light-up displays, making it a truly inclusive and joyous occasion.
Things to do celebrate Diwali/Deepavali in Singapore 2024-
Street Lights Display
With Diwali around the corner, the streets of Serangoon Road, Little India, are adorned with lights brighter than the sun. If you are in Singapore and don't see the beautiful diyas, lotus flowers, peacocks and other designs symbolic of Diwali, you are wasting your time. The eye-popping lanterns beautify the street, making the perfect place for those insta-worthy posts. So, influencers where are you at?
Bazaar Shopping
Are you looking for Deepavali gift ideas? There is only one place where you can get all the items to check off that long list- Deepavali Festival Village.
Take a stroll down the glittery market at Cambell Lane. From home decor items to diyas, you will find everything to be prettier than the other. If you are intrigued by this bazaar shopping idea, head to Robert's Lane for beautiful traditional outfits.
Be aware of your wallet, as people end up spending way more than they intend to, thanks to all the gorgeous items.
Temple Worships
Hindus start and end every festival with god's name. So, it is but obvious that they will flock to temples in large numbers. While there are numerous temples in Singapore, a few are more renowned with a crowd like no other.
The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in the heart of Little India is one such place of worship that has people's hearts. It is Little India's crown jewel as it witnesses a heavy flow of Hindus and non-Hindus attending prayers all day long on Diwali.
Tour of Little India
They say, "when in Rome, do as the Romans do", so when you are in Little India, do as the Indians do. Didn't understand?
Little India is a place in Singapore with attractions, temples, eateries and tourist points that beautifully display the Indian culture. It is the 'the' place during festivals like Diwali because you get a once in a lifetime chance to see the grand festivities followed by Hindus.
So, even if you are in Singapore for a short time, make sure to visit this place to check an item on the bucket list that you never knew ought to be there.
Exploration on Wheels
Do you get tired of walking for too long? No problem because the Indian Heritage Centre provides 15-minute Trishaw rides all over Little India. The advantage is that you get to immerse in the stunning sights and experience life in the hood while having your feet up. Plus, be a part of the bright festival celebrations of Deepavali in Singapore. It really is the perfect little ride for the ever-so beautiful Little India.
Awe-spiring Arts Exhibition
The Indian Festival of Arts hosts a cultural festival called Kalaa Utsavam that honours and entertains people in traditional and contemporary Indian art during Diwali. There are shows, short films and performances by artists from all over the country.
They truly put all their efforts in to give you the perfect Deepavali in Singapore feels.
Fun from Home
Don't have any plans that involve stepping out of the house? We got you covered! The Indian Heritage Centre has decided to get you in the festive mood in the comfort of your home. They are offering abundant offline and online activities resonating with the theme, 'Welcoming Light.'
What's more, you ask? You get culinary masterclasses, educational displays, Kolam and rangoli design workshops, songs, drama and so much more.
Here's a little tip for an unforgettable Deepavali in Singapore:
Thimithi festival
The Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown is famous for multiple reasons. It is 'the place' to visit a week prior to Diwali to witness the fire-walking ritual. This ritual is in honour of goddess Draupati Amman which takes place with great pomp and show.
It is not only the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore but also one of the most spectacular. Its hand-painted ceilings and precise details can take your breath away within seconds.
Gurnika Talwar is FNP’s marketing and creative content writer and has been with the firm since 2020. She is based in Delhi, India and has been in this field for 2+ years.
She started her journey as a freshman but since then has created content on several mediums. With blogging on gift ideas, food, gardening tips and whatnot as her primary goal, she has also curated content for social media and brand films. As a storyteller, she creates original, genuine, and relatable content to connect with the mass. Besides work, you’ll find her chit-chatting about movies or making sarcastic jokes.
With Diwali around the corner, the streets of Serangoon Road, Little India, are adorned with lights brighter than the sun. If you are in Singapore and don't see the beautiful diyas, lotus flowers, peacocks and other designs symbolic of Diwali, you are wasting your time. The eye-popping lanterns beautify the street, making the perfect place for those insta-worthy posts. So, influencers where are you at?
Are you looking for Deepavali gift ideas? There is only one place where you can get all the items to check off that long list- Deepavali Festival Village.
Take a stroll down the glittery market at Cambell Lane. From home decor items to diyas, you will find everything to be prettier than the other. If you are intrigued by this bazaar shopping idea, head to Robert's Lane for beautiful traditional outfits.
Be aware of your wallet, as people end up spending way more than they intend to, thanks to all the gorgeous items.
Hindus start and end every festival with god's name. So, it is but obvious that they will flock to temples in large numbers. While there are numerous temples in Singapore, a few are more renowned with a crowd like no other.
The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in the heart of Little India is one such place of worship that has people's hearts. It is Little India's crown jewel as it witnesses a heavy flow of Hindus and non-Hindus attending prayers all day long on Diwali.
They say, "when in Rome, do as the Romans do", so when you are in Little India, do as the Indians do. Didn't understand?
Little India is a place in Singapore with attractions, temples, eateries and tourist points that beautifully display the Indian culture. It is the 'the' place during festivals like Diwali because you get a once in a lifetime chance to see the grand festivities followed by Hindus.
So, even if you are in Singapore for a short time, make sure to visit this place to check an item on the bucket list that you never knew ought to be there.
Do you get tired of walking for too long? No problem because the Indian Heritage Centre provides 15-minute Trishaw rides all over Little India. The advantage is that you get to immerse in the stunning sights and experience life in the hood while having your feet up. Plus, be a part of the bright festival celebrations of Deepavali in Singapore. It really is the perfect little ride for the ever-so beautiful Little India.
The Indian Festival of Arts hosts a cultural festival called Kalaa Utsavam that honours and entertains people in traditional and contemporary Indian art during Diwali. There are shows, short films and performances by artists from all over the country.
They truly put all their efforts in to give you the perfect Deepavali in Singapore feels.
Don't have any plans that involve stepping out of the house? We got you covered! The Indian Heritage Centre has decided to get you in the festive mood in the comfort of your home. They are offering abundant offline and online activities resonating with the theme, 'Welcoming Light.'
What's more, you ask? You get culinary masterclasses, educational displays, Kolam and rangoli design workshops, songs, drama and so much more.
The Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown is famous for multiple reasons. It is 'the place' to visit a week prior to Diwali to witness the fire-walking ritual. This ritual is in honour of goddess Draupati Amman which takes place with great pomp and show.
It is not only the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore but also one of the most spectacular. Its hand-painted ceilings and precise details can take your breath away within seconds. 
