The arts serve as a powerful bridge for community bonding, bringing together diverse groups within the Indian community, said Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, and Manpower, Dinesh Vasu Dash.
“The arts, in particular, is unique. Not only does it have the power of bringing everyone together, but it also reflects tradition, history, and culture,” he remarked.
Speaking at the launch of the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society’s (SIFAS) 22nd Festival of Arts on April 17, Mr Dinesh described the gathering as a “fantastic signal” of Singapore’s ability to unite regardless of race, language, or religion.
“I see many people from different organisations here – Bengalis, Gujaratis, Malayalees, Tamils – all of us coming together, regardless of race, language, and religion, to celebrate the arts,” he said. “I think it’s a fantastic signal, a fantastic statement that we have created here.”
Drawing on the festival’s theme, Infinite Rasa, Mr Dinesh pointed out that it indicates abundance in the new year.
“At the same time, there is the essence, which is what rasa is about. And I think that is wonderful in ensuring that we are able to focus on what is truly important when it comes to the arts,” he said.
Held at the society’s outdoor amphitheatre in its new campus at Middle Road, the event attracted around 50 people, including several community leaders.
After more than 30 years at Starlight Road, the academy moved to the restored heritage building, formerly belonging to the Middle Road Hospital.
Congratulating SIFAS on the transformation of its premises – specifically the new open-air amphitheatre – Mr Dinesh highlighted its openness and inclusivity.
He contrasted the site’s history as a hospital during the “depressing time” following World War II with its current state as a vibrant cultural hub, using art as a “shining light” to lead the community forward.
Mr Dinesh also acknowledged the institution’s remarkable growth since its inception in 1949 with just 12 members. Currently, it has over 2,000 students and 40 staff.
“Everything right up to what happens in this place, you have taken it, transformed it, and made it your own,” he said.
The Infinite Rasa-themed festival is expected to welcome over 15,000 attendees.
SIFAS secretary P.S. Somasekharan said the festival, at its heart, is about experience, expression, and evolution.
“It provides a meaningful platform for budding orchestras, who often perform for short durations, to deliver full-length concert performances. In doing so, they gain confidence, depth, and the ability to connect more profoundly with the audiences,” he said.
Roses of Peace founder and former Nominated Member of Parliament Mohamed Irshad described watching performances in the amphitheatre as novel, calling it “unique for an Indian organisation in Singapore”.
“Many passers-by, including tourists, come to watch the performances. The festival and its venue have already provided an avenue for different people to come together,” he said.
