Did you know that “Deepavali” means “a row of lights” in Tamil? This reflects the tradition of lighting lamps during the festival to signify the victory of light over darkness and is why it is often referred to as the “Festival of Lights”.

This Deepavali, experience the exuberance of the festival at the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) Deepavali Open House 2023! Over five weekends from 14 October to 12 November 2023, IHC invites visitors to immerse in the festive atmosphere and rich traditions of Deepavali across four themes, featuring a diverse range of cultural programmes, performances, workshops and more.

The first weekend’s theme is Food, and visitors can embark on a flavourful journey with the Hyderabad Mock Meat Biryani – Deepavali Edition cooking demonstration, an innovative reinterpretation of the Hyderabad favourite; or learn how to prepare traditional sweets with a hands-on Ladoo Making and Storytelling session for families. Visitors can also join a special Food Trail in Little India to take in the smell of spices, vibrant scenes, colourful street art, and delicious street food as the precinct revels in the festive atmosphere.

Fashion is the theme of the second weekend, and visitors can learn about the subtleties of draping a saree at the Indian Fashion & Saree Draping Masterclass or be introduced to the rich heritage of South Indian jewellery at the South Indian Jewellery Painting Workshop.

The third weekend will focus on the Arts. The Kala Sangam – Indian Miniatures Workshop will acquaint participants with Indian artistic traditions; while the Tanjore Art Workshop lets participants get hands-on with this South Indian artform. For the first time at IHC, visitors can also enjoy enchanting Candlelight Cultural Performances that showcase Deepavali’s rich beauty through kathak, a classical Indian dance form.

The fourth weekend delves into the rich Mythology that surrounds Deepavali with an engaging lineup of workshops, including an immersive experience of the love story of Hindu god Krishna and goddess Radha through the Dramatized Gallery Tour.

The final weekend falls on the eve and day of Deepavali, and visitors can soak in the festive atmosphere at IHC with its colourful décor, and also use the centre as a base to explore Little India during this special season.

📅 14 Oct to 12 Nov 2023
⏰ 10am – 6pm DAILY, except Mondays
📍 Indian Heritage Centre

Registration is required for selected programmes here.

Admission to IHC is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents.

For more information, please visit here, or peatix to register for paid programmes.

Deepavali falls on 12 November 2023 year and here is our round-up of Deepavali events 2023 that you can look forward to in Singapore.

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