Deepavali, also known as the “Festival of Lights,” holds a profound meaning, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. In the Tamil language, Deepavali literally means “a row of lights.” This year, embrace the spirit of this radiant festival at the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) Deepavali Open House 2023!
Running over five weekends, from 14 October to 12 November, IHC warmly invites visitors to dive into the festive ambiance and rich traditions of Deepavali, featuring a delightful array of cultural programs, performances, workshops, and more. Let’s take a journey through the themes of each weekend.
Weekend 1: Food (14 – 15 October)
Experience the culinary delights of Deepavali. Join the Hyderabad Mock Meat Biryani – Deepavali Edition cooking demonstration, a creative take on the Hyderabad favorite. Learn the art of making traditional sweets with a hands-on Ladoo Making and Storytelling session suitable for families. And don’t miss the chance to embark on a special Food Trail in Little India, where you can savor the enticing aromas of spices, revel in vibrant scenes, admire colorful street art, and indulge in mouthwatering street food while immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.
Weekend 2: Fashion (21 – 22 October)
Dive into the world of fashion during this weekend. Learn the intricacies of draping a saree at the Indian Fashion & Saree Draping Masterclass. Discover the rich heritage of South Indian jewelry at the South Indian Jewelry Painting Workshop.
Weekend 3: Arts (28 – 29 October)
Explore the artistic side of Deepavali. Join the Kala Sangam – Indian Miniatures Workshop to acquaint yourself with Indian artistic traditions. Get hands-on with South Indian art forms at the Tanjore Art Workshop. For the first time at IHC, enjoy enchanting Candlelight Cultural Performances that showcase Deepavali’s rich beauty through Kathak, a classical Indian dance form.
Weekend 4: Mythology (4 – 5 November)
Delve into the rich mythology that surrounds Deepavali. Engage in a variety of workshops, including an immersive experience of the love story of Hindu god Krishna and goddess Radha through the Dramatized Gallery Tour.
Weekend 5: Deepavali Eve and Day (11 – 12 November)
The final weekend aligns with the eve and day of Deepavali, providing visitors with a chance to soak in the festive atmosphere at IHC, adorned with colorful décor. You can also use the center as a base to explore Little India during this special season.
Please note that registration is required for selected programs. Admission to IHC is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents.