Deepavali is a major Indian festival that is of great significance in the Hindu culture. Deepavali which is also known as the “Festival of Lights” symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and lamps are lit as a sign of celebration and hope for humankind. Lights and lamps are thus featured prominently during this festive celebration. On the morning of Deepavali, Hindus follow an important practice to light oil lamps in their homes in gratitude to the gods for the happiness, knowledge, peace and wealth that they have received by these actions.

This festival is celebrated across five consecutive days at the end of Hindu month of Ashwayuja. It usually occurs in October/November and it will be on the 8^th of November for the year 2007. Celebrations in Little India happen from 12^th October to 18^th November 2007. In Singapore, there is only one public holiday for this festival and this year it falls on the 8^th of November. For those who wish to experience Deepavali, you can travel down to Little India to view the spectacular lights and street decorations.

Take a walk down Little India to feel the vibrancy of the India culture. At Campbell lane in Little India, you will see festival bazaar with busy street stalls selling various goods from spices to the traditional costumes (sari). Be sure to catch the Deepavali Street Parade UTSAV and Theemithi during this festive of celebrations.

• Getting There:
  • You can take the MRT on either the North-East (NE) or the East-West (EW) line and alight at Little India/Farrer Park stations (NE7/8) which are most convenient entry points into the area or Bugis station (EW12) which is also within walking distance.
• Advice:
  • Getting taxis in Little India can be difficult, especially on weekends. It is best to either book by phone or head down the major roads to flag one down.

An event not to be missed is the Deepavali Street Parade, UTSAV. This year, it is going to be held on the 3^rd of November 2007 from 7pm to 10pm. For visiting tourists, this will be a great chance to experience the joyous atmosphere of Deepavali in Singapore. There will be towering silver chariot, life-sized dolls, acrobatic drummers, never-before-seen Indian folk arts and amazing costumes. For the parade, it will feature more than 25 contingents of foreign and local artistes who will bring the grandeur of Indian culture to the streets of Little India.

• Address:
  • Along Race Course Road
• Getting There:
  • Take the MRT to North-East line’s Farrer Park(NE8) station

• Visit to Little India