10am - 6pm
The Indian New Year is observed by various Indian sub-ethnic communities in Singapore around this time of year, marking the start of a new year and the harvest season. It is a time for new beginnings and cultural traditions. Tamil families celebrate Puthandu on the first day of Chithirai, the Tamil calendar month. The Sikh community observes the harvest festival Vaisakhi, the Malayalee, Telugu, and Bengali communities celebrate Vishu, Ugadi, and Pohela Baishakh, respectively.
In line with the New Year Celebrations, Indian Heritage Centre invites you to join us for free drop-in museum craft activities & exclusive workshops. Art and food lovers can also sign-up for our popular Signature Banana Leaf Etiquette workshop and a special art masterclass on Tanjore Doll painting!
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FREE PROGRAMMES |
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Choir Performance by the Singapore Indian Orchestra and Choir (SIOC) Date & Time: 12 & 13 April 2025 | 11.00am – 11.30am Ring in the New Year with a LIVE performance by one of the world’s largest semi-professional Indian ensembles. This special performance celebrates the spirit of new beginnings, togetherness, and cultural heritage through a rich blend of traditional and contemporary Indian music. Experience melodies that honour harvest, nature, and unity, reflecting the deep cultural traditions that mark the start of a new year in Indian communities. Admission is free with registration required. Don't miss this enchanting musical journey with SIOC! Registration Link: sioc-harmonies.peatix.com |
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Craft Activity: Tanjore Doll Suncatcher, Coloring Sheets & Young Explorer Museum Kits Date & Time: 12 & 13 April 2025 | 10.30am – 5pm Tanjore dolls, also known as Thanjavur Thalaiyatti Bommai (Thanjavur Dancing Dolls), are traditional hand-crafted figurines admired for their intricate designs and cultural significance. These dolls often depict dancers, musicians, and mythological figures, showcasing a rich artistic heritage. Get creative by designing your own Suncatcher Tanjore Doll on an acrylic piece, using vibrant paints! Unleash your creativity by colouring a special Theyyam mask—a colourful and elaborate mask from Kerala, India, featured in traditional performances. Plus, explore the museum galleries with our interactive Discovery Kit, packed with fun activities and challenges for young explorers! *The Discovery Kit is designed for use within the galleries. Permanent Gallery admission is free for all Singaporeans and PRs.
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The Art of Doll Crafting – Live Demo Date & Time: 12 April 2025, 10.30am – 12.30pm | 13 April 2025, 2pm – 5pm As part of the Kala Sangam initiative with the Indian High Commission, which celebrates and promotes Indian art, culture, and heritage in Singapore, watch a master craftsman from India bring traditional Golu dolls to life in our lobby! Crafted from clay or wood, these dolls are arranged in tiers, each representing different aspects of life and culture. Don’t miss the chance to see this intricate process up close and learn about the rich traditions behind this unique art form!
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Traditional Tanjore Doll Painting Workshop Date & Time: 12 April 2025, 2.30pm - 4.30pm | 13 April 2025, 10.30am - 12.30pm Join master craftsman Baskaran from India and explore the art of painting Tanjore dolls, a cherished traditional craft. These dolls are meticulously handcrafted using a blend of paper mâche, clay, and plaster, then carefully dried and painted in vivid hues to highlight their intricate details. Guided step by step, participants will paint their very own Tanjore doll, adding personal touches while uncovering the rich cultural heritage behind this timeless art form. Perfect for beginners and craft enthusiasts alike!
Registration Link: tanjore-dolls-painting.peatix.com |
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Signature Banana Leaf Etiquette Workshop Date & Time: 12 April 2025 | 11am – 1pm In conjunction with Indian Heritage Centre's 10th year anniversary, we are bringing back one of our bestselling programme, Signature Banana Leaf etiquette workshop. Discover the art of South Indian dining at our signature banana leaf rice etiquette workshop. Learn hand washing rituals, dish significance and cultural intricacies, alongside proper meal enjoyment techniques. Join us for an enriching experience that celebrates food, culture, and community this new year. *Participants for this session will receive an exclusive IHC10 commemorative magnet Registration Link: banana-leaf-etiquette.peatix.com
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| OTHER HIGHLIGHTS |
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Celebrate Our 10th Anniversary: Discover New Museum Artefacts As part of our 10th anniversary and SG60 celebrations in 2025, IHC is unveiling its first major artefact rotation since opening! This milestone marks a decade of preserving and sharing Singapore’s rich Indian cultural heritage. To celebrate SG60, 60 new objects will be showcased, including items from Singapore’s National Collection and others making their public debut.The first set of 30 NEW artefacts, including this exquisite collection of Golu Dolls, is NOW on display in our galleries. Come explore these newly featured pieces and be part of this exciting chapter in our museum’s journey! Note: Free admission to the museum for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) |
