History of Little India in Singapore comes alive with Heritage Marker Project

Visitors to Singapore can now learn more about the history of Little India through heritage markers showcasing the ethnic district's historical sites.

The 33 markers spread across Little India will tell the story behind key streets, prominent buildings, places of worship and attractions of historical significance in one of Singapore's most colourful and vibrant ethnic districts. The markers, in free-standing or wall-mounted designs, will carry information about these locations in English, Tamil, Mandarin and Japanese.

Four directional boards will also be put up at strategic locations to direct visitors to the various places of interest in Little India. The 33 sites were identified and selected through a historical study on Little India commissioned by STB in 2000. Eighteen markers have been put in place, with the remainder to be erected in phases over the next few months.

The project is spearheaded by the Singapore Tourism Board with the support of the National Heritage Board, the Central Singapore Community Development Council, the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association and the Hindu Endowments Board.

The Heritage Marker Project is part of a broader STB initiative to better showcase the places of historical interest in Singapore's various ethnic districts. The project is ongoing in Chinatown and there are plans to extend it to Kampong Glam and Joo Chiat.

The project was launched today by Mr Chan Soo Sen, Minister of State for Education and Community Development and Sports.

STB's Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive, Mr Lim Neo Chian, said: "Little India already has so much to offer in terms of cultural attractions and vibrancy. Providing visitors with the necessary information to help them explore and discover the hidden treasures of Little India will help tourists come away with an even more enriching experience from their visit to this ethnic district.

The heritage markers are also an important tool to help Singaporeans themselves re-discover the many interesting nooks and crannies within Little India, many of which are not known to the average Singaporean."

The launch of the Little India Heritage Markers kicks off a month-long line-up of cultural activities and events that will take place in Little India during the upcoming Deepavali period this year.

The Deepavali Light-up this year, with its theme of oil lamps symbolising the ushering in of brightness, good fortune and divine blessings, will be officially launched on Friday, 3 October 2003.

A host of other exciting activities, including a festival village at Campbell Lane, traditional saree weaving demonstrations by weavers specially flown-in from India and weekend cultural performances at Kerbau Road, will turn Little India into a colourful hive of activity and festive cheer during the month of October.

Several festivals will also be celebrated during this month. These include the Navarathiri Festival (26 September - 4 October), which is celebrated with dance and music within various temple grounds, the Silver Chariot Procession (10-13 October) and Theemidhi or the fire walking festival (13 October).