Meaning “Festival of Lights,” the Hindu holiday of Deepavali is often associated with the worship of Mahalakshmi, the goddess of light and prosperity, the triumph of Krishna over the evil Narakasura and the return of Rama after a 14-year banishment. Although the specific stories vary across India, on a national (and international) level, this colourful celebration commemorates the victory of light over darkness and good versus evil. Also called Diwali, it is celebrated in autumn and, this year, it falls on October 30.
Singapore ranks among the brightest and best celebrations of the holiday in Southeast Asia and the world. Here are just some of the best things to do to celebrate Deepavali with all five senses — see, touch, taste, hear and smell — if you’re celebrating in this multi-cultural metropolis.
See
Singapore has always been a colourful city, but even more so during Deepavali, when the town turns on its kaleidoscopic lights. If you walk around Little India (from the Selegie Road all the way through Serangoon Road), which is undoubtedly the centre of all the Diwali festivities, you’ll find the streets adorned with vibrant lights and homes decorated with flowers and coloured rice flour. The magic of Diwali is enhanced through amazing fireworks displays, such as the famous Deepavali Festival Village, where you’ll find traditional Indian clothing, accessories, and handicrafts on sale. The bazaar is open for three weeks on Hastings Road, so be sure to check it out.
Touch
Indulge in soothing and healing Ayurveda treatments while in Little India. Located on Serangoon Road’s Verge Shopping Mall (also known as Tekka Mall), Ayurlly Ayurvedic Spa offers body massages and signature treatments, while Ayush Ayurveda Academy features one-hour massages called Abhyangam (which improves blood circulation) and Podhikizi (which relieves joint and muscle pain) for around $64.20. Another treat for your sense of touch? Splurge on traditional Indian clothing made from luxurious hand-woven silk. Head down to any of the shops in Little India’s shopping destinations, like Stylemart or the 24-hour Mustafa Centre, to find the town’s best and most affordable.
Taste
At the Deepavali Festival Village, you’ll find tasty Indian snacks to satisfy your taste buds such as laadu, murukku and athirasam. Want more than just snacks? Don’t miss the opportunity to try delicious Indian food in Little India. Try Allaudin’s Briyani, Khansama Tandoori Restaurant, or, if you are vegetarian, the Komala Villas Restaurant on Serangoon Road, which features a meat-free menu. Race Course Road is also a famous street for finding great Indian restaurants such as Banana Leaf Apolo, Mustard, and Muthu’s Curry Restaurant.
Smell
Expect a sensory overload during the Deepavali celebrations, especially for your sense of smell. Aside from the constant whiff of delicious Indian food wafting from the many restaurants and bazaars in Singapore, you’ll also find yourself being treated to the smells of scented candles and fragrant flowers. Strings of jasmine flowers are used as an offering at the Hindu temples, while marigold and roses are often used as a substitute for coloured rice flours to design floor/courtyard decorations also known as rangoli.
Hear
Expect numerous shows and concerts during the holiday season. Little India boasts many fun late-night offerings; open-air concerts and a countdown bash are just some of the few events you can expect. You can also check out the bars and pubs known for great music such as Prince of Wales pub and the Spanish-themed bar Zsofi.
Why not plan ahead for next year and spend Deepavali in India in 2017? Check out “Things I wish I knew before visiting India” for tips and start your search.
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