Singapore's Indian Community Gears Up for Historic Ganeshotsav After PM Modi's Visit

The Indian diaspora in Singapore is set to celebrate a five-day Ganeshotsav starting Saturday in an open field, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit. The event will feature traditional festivities and eco-friendly idols, marking a significant cultural occasion for the community.

The Indian diaspora in Singapore is preparing for a historic five-day Ganeshotsav celebration starting Saturday, marking the first time the event will be held in an open field in the island nation. This cultural milestone comes immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day official visit to Singapore.

Prime Minister Modi's recent visit, which took place on September 4-5, 2024, was his fifth to Singapore. The significance of this year's Ganeshotsav is heightened due to the recent exchange of MoUs aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, including agreements on digital technologies, semiconductor partnerships, and joint initiatives in health, medicine, education, and skills development.

Sachin Ganjapurkar, President of Maharashtra Mandal in Singapore, said, "We have been celebrating Ganeshotsav in Singapore for 30 years, but this is the first time we are doing it in a large open 'Pandal.' Despite usually being a 10-day festival in India, our five-day celebration has become a significant event for the Indian community here."

Over 25,000 people are expected to attend the event, which will feature a three-foot eco-friendly Ganesh idol from India. "This festival is special for many, including children who look forward to the celebrations every year," said Shailendra Verma, an Indian national living in Singapore.

The festivities are not just a display of devotion but also a means to stay connected with Indian traditions. Yatin Datar, who has been running a shop in Singapore for 26 years, noted the growing popularity of Ganesha idols in Singapore. "We now import 400 idols from India, and shops across the island sell thousands each year," he said.

This year's Ganeshotsav is particularly noteworthy as it follows closely on the heels of PM Modi's impactful visit, which has added an extra layer of enthusiasm and significance to the celebrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)