Singapore’s multicultural spirit was on full display at the Together-in-Harmony family day celebration held at Bishan Active Park on May 17.
It was jointly organised by the Pardesi Khalsa Dharmak Diwan (PKDD), the Indian Activity Executive Committees (IAECs) of Marymount and Thomson Community Clubs (CCs) and Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Marymount SMC Harmony Circles.
Founded in 1926, PKDD is one of the country’s oldest Sikh institutions, and the Together-in-Harmony event was part of its year-long centennial commemorations, reflecting the gurdwara’s long-standing commitment to racial and religious harmony.
Around 400 attendees of varied backgrounds participated in the joyous occasion, which was graced by the Minister for National Development and Grassroots Advisor to Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC Chee Hong Tat.
The whole day event featured an extensive lineup of cultural performances and programmes, food, games, and family-friendly activities.
The Yaar Panj-aab Phangra Troupe set the energy alight with a high-octane performance at the start. This was followed by Malay and Indian dance performances on stage by Chinese and Indian participants who drew applause for both their talent and the unity they embodied.
A standout moment was the laughter yoga session, which had attendees giggling together.
“The planning was very well done. The food and drinks were delicious, and we even got a goodie bag,” said Mr Albert Leong, 74, a retiree.
He attended the event with Ms Lydia Lau, 66, who added that “these events support well-being, harmony, and multiracial togetherness. We felt at home here.”
Beyond the performances, also present were exhibition and pop-up booths by National Environment Agency, Singapore Police Force, the Health Promotion Board, and other vendors.
“We loved the performances and the exhibition booths,” said Mdm Gurbachan Kaur, 65, who was joined by her two friends – Mdm Balbir Kaur, 68, and Mdm Sukhdev Kaur, 62 – and their respective families.
“We should learn and share more about each other’s cultures, and this event is one such example. The food was great, and of course our Punjabi cha!” Mdm Gurbachan added.
Founder of Singapore Sardarni, Ms Alesha Kaur, who manned a booth at the event was moved by the “kindness and community spirit” she encountered. “As local vendors, we were overwhelmed by the genuine warmth we received and hugs that felt like family,” she said.
The Together-in-Harmony event organising chairman Despal Singh, noted that the gurdwara’s commitment to living alongside diversity goes beyond events.
For 35 years, PKDD has been based at No.9 Lorong 29 Geylang – a mixed heritage building that also houses Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, and other community organisations – making PKDD one of the few religious bodies in Singapore within such a pluralistic shared space.
“Harmony is not just an idea, but something we actively build together through shared experiences, friendships and respect for one another’s traditions,” Mr Despal said.
