The Indian Cultural Fiesta (ICF) and Tamil New Year (TNY) are significant celebrations for Singapore’s Indian and Tamil communities. Organised by the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association (LISHA), these events aim to showcase Indian heritage, foster cultural unity, and educate the public about the rich traditions of various Indian communities. April is an important month as it marks the New Year for many Indian communities, making it the perfect time for these celebrations. This year’s festivities will feature various cultural performances, exhibitions, food trails, and other exciting events.
According to Regunarth Siva, Chairman of LISHA, what is unique about this year’s event is the incorporation of youths and their achievements in Tamil, which has been our core objective in this year’s celebrations. Another difference is in the previous years the focus was on migrant workers. This year “LISHA will be organizing this unique event together with the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) to bring awareness of yoga in a fun fashion to our domestic helper friends”.
Key Events
Street Banners Along Serangoon Road
Date: 2nd – 30th April 2025
Venue: Lampposts Along Serangoon Road
LISHA will display 60 banners along Serangoon Road to honour local youths excelling in arts, literature, or sports in line with SG60. Each banner will feature a youth’s photo and achievements, promoting the Tamil language and culture.
Ethnic Indian Food Trails
Date: 5th & 19th April 2025
Time: 3 PM – 5 PM
Venue: Four Participating Heritage Restaurants in Little India
A guided food trail offering visitors a taste of authentic Indian cuisine at heritage restaurants. Visitors will be given a trail map which will take them to our selected four heritage restaurants (Gayathri, Flavours, Shivam and Aarya). Visitors will be allowed to taste the finger food on display. This free event allows participants to explore different flavours while learning about Indian culinary traditions.
Chithirai Kalai Vizha (Cultural Show)
Date: 12th April 2025
Time: 7 PM – 10 PM
Venue: PGP Auditorium
“Chithirai Kalai Vizha” is a cultural show to celebrate the Tamil New Year. A vibrant cultural event featuring renowned Tamil narrators Isai Kavi Ramanan and Bharathi Bhaskaran. It will also include classical dance, skits, and a special Lifetime Achievement Award presentation to poet K. T. M. Iqbal.
Indian Ethnic Exhibition
Date: 12th – 15th April 2025
Time: 9 AM – 6 PM
Venue: PGP Function Hall, Level 1
An exhibition showcasing 15 Indian communities in Singapore, highlighting their unique fabrics, cultural heritage, and historical presence through engaging displays.
Indian Cultural Fiesta Show
Date: 13th April 2025
Time: 7 PM – 10 PM
Venue: PGP Auditorium
The Indian Cultural Fiesta Show is a highly anticipated annual show. A grand showcase of dance performances by 17 Indian communities in Singapore, celebrating their cultural diversity. DPM Heng Swee Keat, Minister Alvin Tan, and Mayor Denise Phua are among the invited VVIPs.
Ethnic Indian Fashion Walk
Date: 19th April 2025
Time: 3 PM – 5 PM
Venue: Tekka Place Level 1
A unique fashion walk featuring traditional Indian attire from various states of India, with live commentary explaining the significance of each outfit. This event is open to the public and it is free.
Cooking Workshop with Celebrity Chef
Date: 26th April 2025
Time: 3 PM – 5 PM
Venue: Tekka Place Level 1
Celebrity Chef Arifin will conduct a live cooking demonstration of a fusion vegetarian festive dish, educating participants on sustainable cooking techniques.
Mind and MAT (Yoga Event)
Date: 27th April 2025
Time: 10 AM – 2 PM
Venue: NTUC @ One Marina Boulevard
Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, has gained immense popularity worldwide. To celebrate the Indian New Year, particularly the Tamil New Year, LISHA, in collaboration with the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE), is organizing a special event to promote yoga in an engaging and enjoyable way for domestic helpers. CDE and LISHA also encourage domestic helpers to invite their employers, fostering a stronger bond between them. A special yoga event for domestic helpers, encouraging relaxation and wellness. Renowned yoga master Jeevan will lead the session, creating a fun and engaging experience for all participants.
The Indian Cultural Fiesta and Tamil New Year 2025 promises a month of vibrant festivities, cultural exploration, and community engagement. Through these events, LISHA continues to preserve and promote Indian heritage while fostering unity and appreciation among Singapore’s diverse communities. Join us in celebrating this cultural extravaganza!
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