How to Celebrate Deepavali (SG Version)

Traditional Deepavali Celebration 

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is traditionally celebrated over five days.  

On the first day of Diwali, also known as Dhanteras, people clean their homes, perform rituals called puja or pooja, place tea lights around the house, and shop for gold and kitchen utensils. These are believed to bring good fortune. Read more about Dhanteras in our previous blog. 

On the second day of Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, many people decorate their homes with coloured powder to form intricate patterns, also known as rangolis.   

On the third day of Diwali, also known as Lakshmi Puja, families gather for a prayer to worship the Goddess Lakshmi. Feasting and fireworks usually come after that. 

On the fourth day of Diwali, also known as Govardhan Puja, is the start of the new year. Friends and relatives visit with gifts and best wishes for the season.   

On the fifth day, also known as Bhaiya Dooj, is the last day of Diwali celebration. This day is dedicated to celebrating the sibling bond. Traditionally, brothers will visit and bring gifts to their sisters, who honour them with special rituals, sweets and meals.  

Deepavali in Singapore 

Traditionally, Deepavali is celebrated in many parts of India with prayers, food, and lighting of firecrackers. This is however, not practised in Singapore due to safety issues and noise pollution levels. Instead, some people turn to sparklers or other lights as alternatives. 

One of the best places in Singapore that you can experience the Deepavali atmosphere would be Little India. Little India is a buzzing historic area that shows off the best of Singapore’s Indian community, from vibrant culture to incredible shopping. The place comes alive even more so during the Deepavali period, with beautiful lights set up and buzzing crowd weaving in and out of the many shops selling a wide array of items like gold jewellery, Indian cuisines and many more.  

Even if you do not celebrate Deepavali, you can make a trip down to Little India just to soak yourself in the celebrative vibes and the observe the joyous celebrations with wonderful sights to behold! 

Deepavali Jewellery Lookbook 

References:

https://www.arthesdam.com.sg/blogs/news/deepavali

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/pages/article/diwali

https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/a34520345/diwali-celebrations/

https://sg.theasianparent.com/deepavali-guide-for-outsiders

https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/little-india/