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Grassroots with passion
Discover Singapore’s Indian Roots at the Indian Heritage Centre The breathtaking building along Campbell Lane stands out from its surroundings with a dazzling glass facade, beautiful light features, and lush greenery on its rooftop. The Indian Heritage Centre was opened in 2015 as a celebration of Indian culture in Singapore. Its stunning architecture is both a modern work of art and a tribute to ancient Indian designs. The centre hosts five permanent galleries which tell countless tales of Indian culture and its journey into Southeast Asia. At the moment, the centre has strict COVID regulations in place which all visitors have to abide by. However, it is a small price to pay to experience the wealth of knowledge within its walls. Guided tours are available at 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays with a Mandarin tour available on the second Sunday of each month. If you fancy a solo jaunt, the centre is open from Tuesday to Sunday. For the opening hours and further information head to indianheritage.gov.sg or visit the centre at 5 Campbell Lane .
Admire the Technicolour Elegance of the House of Tan Teng Niah Amidst the tall buildings of Singapore, a fragment of a much simpler time sits in a corner of Kerbau Road. Despite its obscure location, it is definitely not difficult to find. The enchanting 19th-century villa was once home to prominent businessman Tan Teng Niah who owned and operated factories in the area. As the country began to modernise, new developments took over and transformed the world around it. The little house stood stalwart, however, and was restored to its current state in the 1980s. Today, its rainbow-hued panels delight locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re there for an impromptu photoshoot or to admire the award-winning architecture, it is definitely worth a visit. The House of Tan Teng Niah is located at 37 Kerbau Road, just behind Tekka Centre.
Visit Some of Singapore’s Historic Hindu Temples Little India was not always the cultural destination it is today. In fact, it used tobe a bustling place of industry with pineapple factories, rattan workshops, and brick kilns throughout the area. Many of the workers here were migrants from India and as they grew in number, they needed a place to worship. From the late 19th century, temples featuring the spectacular Dravidian architecture of South India were built for the local Indian community to practise their faith freely. A walk down Serangoon Road will acquaint you with two of these sacred sites: Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. The first thing to keep an eye out for are the central towers or gopuram of the temples. Adorned with intricate statues of deities and painted with vivid colours, it is worth the trip just to see its grandeur in person. However, the interior of the temples is just as splendid and visitors can experience and learn more about the Hindu faith first-hand. When visiting these holy places, keep in mind that each temple has its own guidelines and visitors are expected to adhere to them. Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is located at 397 Serangoon Rd, just a ten-minute walk away from Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple at 141 Serangoon Rd .
This list offers but a few ideas of how to enjoy and explore Little India; many other adventures await to be discovered amidst its storied streets. While the physical markets and bazaars are not on this year, many sellers have taken to online stores and even Facebook where you can buy the festive treats and trinkets you love. Head over to fb.com/Officiallishasg for frequent updates on all the events and online markets run by the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association.
Here’s wishing everyone a happy Deepavali season!
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