Monday, May 17, 2010

Sample entry for Deepavali in Singapore

Here is a write-up on Deepavali in Singapore. I have sourced it from http://www.travel-singapore.com/events/november.

Deepavali or "Festival of Lights" is annually held in November as to celebrate the triumph of Lord Krishna over the evil Narakasura. Lord Krishna symbolizes goodness while Narakasura represents evil; that's why it concerns with "lights," which clearly depict purity. So to speak, light will always win darkness and good can always conquer evil.

Deepavali is considered a most important day of Hindu calendar, and is arranged in Little India, another ethnic area of Singapore. It's times for rejoicing and renewal of especial Hindus and Sikhs. Of course, oil lamps play a unique part of this festival as it is believed that there are spirits of departed relatives who come back to earth and so the lights are the guidance for those wandering souls to their subsequent world. For the Indians, this festival is like a New Year celebration, while they welcome relatives and friends at their own homes for exchanging some blessings.
During this auspicious time, Serangoon Road in Little India and temples in that area such as Sri Veerama Kaliamman, Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman, and Sri Srinivasa Perumal are adorned with spectacular display of fairy lights, garlands of jasmine, and colorful arches to mark this festive period. People pour into Little India at night for celebrations, sightseeing, and festive goods such as costumes, food, furniture, arts, crafts, and jewelries.

Deepavali is taken into account of Singapore's important festivals for this time helps harmonize people, promote goodwill, and share understanding through various ethnic groups.

Back in Eunos Primary, we celebrate Deepavali during one of our Assembly periods. Usually, it is done via concert items and also informative skits on the various aspects of Deepavali. 

We do have Indian friends among us who celebrate Deepavali in Eunos Primary School. They are also given early dismissal during the eve of Deepavali in order to let them prepare for their celebration.


I have not been to any of the Deepavali celebrations but if given the chance, I would love to share their joy. After all, not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to live in a multi-racial society.

1 comment:

  1. dear mr yap please dont forget to ask the teachers abaut the NDP cause i really want to go please help me if u can. but if cannot my supervisor say that can i go there halif day example tomorrow i go at 2.30pm i come back by 5.00pm or 6.00pm. i hope i can go

    from sarah:)

    ReplyDelete