Embark on a cultural odyssey as the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) unveils a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Singapore’s Malayalee community through their latest special exhibition, “Ente Veedu, My Home: Malayalees in Singapore.” From today to 15 September 2024, this groundbreaking exhibition offers a unique exploration of heritage, culture, and identity, co-created with the Malayalee community themselves.
Dive into the rich tapestry of the Malayalees, the second-largest sub-group within Singapore’s Indian population, as they take you on a captivating journey from their roots in the South Indian state of Kerala to their significant contributions to the Lion City. The Malayalee community, diverse in its cultural and religious makeup, has been a melting pot for centuries, embracing Hindus, Muslims, Syrian Christians, Roman Catholics, and more.
As you walk through the exhibition’s four distinct zones, more than 200 artifacts from the National Collection and various institutions, including the National Library Board, National Museum of Singapore, and Singapore Press Holdings, come to life, providing a comprehensive view of Malayalee heritage.
Zone 1: From Kerala to Singapore
Explore the origins and roots of Singapore Malayalees through star artifacts, like the intricately designed nettipattam—a decorative elephant caparison used during community and temple festivals in Kerala. Witness this artifact on public display for the first time, offering a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the Malayalee homeland.
Zone 2: Ente Singapore: My Singapore
Uncover the contributions of Malayalees in Singapore, discovering the spaces they inhabited, worked, and played in. Delve into the art forms and languages they brought with them from Kerala, showcased through rare Malayalam palm leaf manuscripts, emphasizing the importance of their mother tongue in a linguistically diverse community.
Zone 3: In a Malayalee Home
Celebrate the depth and breadth of Malayalee customs and traditions by exploring the intimate spaces and personal items within a Malayalee home. Marvel at artifacts like the traditional doorway of a Syrian Christian house, illustrating the significance of religious beliefs in this culturally diverse community.
Zone 4: Malayalees in Singapore
Embark on a visual journey through black-and-white photographs chronicling the lives of Malayalee pioneers from the 19th and 20th centuries. A video installation, “Being Malayalee: Voices of the Future,” produced in collaboration with Singaporean Malayalee youth, concludes the exhibition by sharing contemporary perspectives on home, culture, and identity.
This immersive experience, co-created with the Malayalee community, unveils personal stories and anecdotes that have never been shared before, offering an intimate glimpse into their lives and culture. It’s a testament to the National Heritage Board’s Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0, empowering more Singaporeans to actively participate in celebrating their rich heritage.
The exhibition is open from 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesdays to Sundays, and admission is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents.
