Singapore: Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, in his Diwali message, has urged Singaporeans to take part in festivals across all communities to foster unity and a shared sense of humanity.
He noted that Diwali’s celebration of the triumph of light over darkness not only holds religious significance for Hindus, but is also a universal message that everyone can embrace.
“By doing so, we build bridges of understanding and respect that transcend the boundaries of race, religion and culture,” The Straits Times quoted Teo as saying during a street light-up along the city state’s Little India precinct, the hub of ‘deep mala’ celebrations which this year is being held from September 14 to November 17.
The light-up event marks the beginning of the celebrations leading up to Diwali on October 31. Teo encouraged Singaporeans to accept this invitation amidst Little India’s festive glow, where Indian origin shops are popular spots for Diwali shopping.
Singapore’s multi-ethnic society celebrates all major religious, traditional, and cultural events, including Eids, Chinese New Year, and Christmas, to foster communal harmony. Little India radiated vibrant colors on Friday night (September 14) during the annual Diwali light-up.
The Little India Shopping and Heritage Association (LISHA) oversees the Diwali festivities, collaborating with the Land Transport Authority on Diwali-themed trains and buses and partnering with the Singapore Indian Development Association to raise funds for the needy.
LISHA has organized 12 fringe activities, running from September 14 to October 3, including open-top double-decker bus tours and workshops, to engage the public and celebrate the festival’s rich heritage, making Diwali a major attraction for tourists visiting Singapore.
