Singapore Little India
Origin
When Sir Stamford Raffles sailed into Singapore in 1819, with
him was an entourage of 2320 Indian settlers in Singapore,
and they resided mainly in the area near Chulia Street in
Chinatown, which Raffles had originally designated for the
Indian community. In the late 19th century, many Indian migrants
came to Singapore to find work, be it to build roads, clear
swamps or to take up key positions in the civil service.
Two major reasons for the influx of Indians into the site
where Little India stands today were the introduction of cattle-rearing
on the fertile land near Rochor River by wealthy cattle merchants
such as Mr. Belilos (a Jewish Indian from Calcutta), and the
building of the Race Course for the Europeans nearby in 1843.
Immigrants from Calcutta, Madras and Malaya flocked here and
by the turn of the century, this area, once covered in gambier
(extract used as medicine and dye), banana and vegetable plantations,
had become a flourishing commercial center for the Indian
community.
Spreading out from both sides of Serangoon Road, this little
enclave of the Indian community became fondly known as Little
India.
Little India Today
Today, Little India is the focal point of Singapore's Indian
community and presents a truly unique experience for you.
Here in the heartland of the Indian community is a fusion
of colors, sounds and scents, where the spiritual is interwoven
with the material needs and practices of the people. Shop
for the unexpected and the unusual - you'll discover an array
of Indian silks, brassware and bangles that will fascinate
you. Its spice-scented streets beckon you to a treasure trove
of silverware, ethnic jewelry, jasmine garlands and silk saris.
From the large Tekka Centre to the small provision shops,
Little India is packed with interesting things to discover.
Walk through the streets of Little India and experience the
aromatic scents of spices and incense. At a spice shop, learn
how spices are ground into curry powder.
Observe the art of weaving flowers into garlands and catch
a glimpse of a fortune-telling parrot! See how henna is applied
in intricate patterns on your feet and palms and how Indian
women adorn the floor with vibrant geometric designs.
Learn about Ayurvedic medicine - the ancient Indian science
based on natural herbs. Examine hand-woven fabrics and hand-made
furniture from different parts of India.
Learn the art of dressing in traditional Indian attire and
try on a "Sari" or a "Kurta". Study the
significance of gold jewelry and witness craftsman craft intricate
Indian jewelry.
At an Indian temple, learn the significance of the temple
architecture and temple rituals. Don't miss the Little India
Cultural Corner (next to the food court in the Little India
Arcade) which transports you back in time through an archival
display. A captivating video presentation provides an insight
into Indian culture through the eyes of a prominent Indian
doctor. There's also a striking display of traditional Indian
items and story signs which brings to life the rich symbolism
and use of these items.
Best Time to Visit
During Deepavali, the Indian Festival of Lights that celebrates
the triumph of Good over Evil, Little India is transformed
into a fairyland of gaily decorated, brightly lit streets
bustling with shoppers.
Getting There
From Orchard Road, take SBS bus 64, 65, or 111 to Serangoon
Road.
10 minute walk from Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station.
10 minute walk from Bugis MRT Station.
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Singapore :
Ethnic Districts