The spirit of Holi came alive in vibrant fashion on March 7 as an estimated 4,000 people gathered for Holi Mela 2026: Festival of Colours at the open field at Tanjong Rhu View, between Costa Rhu, and Pebble Bay condominiums.
The large-scale celebration, held from 9.30am to 2.30pm, brought together families, residents and members of Singapore’s Indian community for a lively day of colour play, cultural performances, food and music.
The event was organised by Katong CCMC, Marwari Mitra Mandal (Singapore), Maharashtra Mandal Singapore, Singapore Gujarati Society, Sindhi Association and South East CDC, with support from Narpani Pearavai, BiJhar (Singapore) and the Punjabi Society. It was hosted by Ms Gho Sze Kee, Adviser to Mountbatten Grassroots Organisations.
The guest of honour was Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth and Manpower.
With clouds of colour rising above the field and music filling the air, the festival turned the Tanjong Rhu venue into a joyful celebration of community spirit and multicultural harmony.
Stage performances added to the festive mood, with participating groups including the Singapore Sindhi Association, Mountbatten CC IAEC, Marwari Mitra Mandal, Singapore Gujarati Society, Maharashtra Mandal Singapore, BiJhar Singapore and the Punjabi Society. Their dance and cultural items kept the crowd entertained throughout the event.
Ms Gho said the festival captured the spirit of unity that defines Singapore.
“Holi reminds us that no matter our differences, we can come together in celebration, just as these beautiful colours blend harmoniously,” she said. “We celebrate diversity – seeing our various Indian associations alongside Mountbatten residents of all backgrounds highlights the true spirit of our multicultural Singapore.”
Marwari Mitra Mandal president Sunil Garg said the event reflected the deeper meaning of Holi beyond the colours and festivities.
“Holi is a celebration that transcends boundaries,” he said. “At Holi Mela in Singapore, people from different races, nationalities and cultures come together to share the joy of colours, music and friendship. It truly reflects the spirit of harmony and multiculturalism that Singapore is known for.”
He added: “As the colours flew, so did our hopes for a future where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is seen and valued.”
Participants said the event stood out for both its scale and festive atmosphere.
Mountbatten resident Ketki Sen, who attended with her son, described it as a “massive party”. “It was very well organised right from the sustainable colours to the food stalls, lively dance groups and the dhol music,” she said. “It was wonderful to see people of all ages celebrating together, especially so many young people enjoying the event outdoors.”
Another resident, Yasmin Malhotra, said the festival offered a chance to connect with neighbours and friends. “As always, it was a fun event to celebrate and strengthen our community bonds,” she said.
For BiJhar member Anjani Chowdhury, it was his first time experiencing Holi on such a large scale. “The celebration beautifully brought together food, cultural performances and inclusivity, with people from different communities participating,” he said. “It was heartening to see the community unite in such a joyful way.”
With its strong turnout, colourful atmosphere and community participation, Holi Mela 2026 once again showed how the Festival of Colours has become an increasingly popular multicultural celebration in Singapore.
santosh@sph.com.sg
