A 1.56m × 1.03m Madhubani painting titled Majulah SG60 in Madhubani art has entered the Singapore Book of Records as the largest individual Madhubani artwork. It was proudly unveiled at the Jurong Spring SG60 Carnival on Aug 16.
The artist behind this achievement is Ms Devika Yogesh Aphale, a 22-year-old naturalised Singaporean who was born in Pune, India, and has lived in Singapore since she was three months old.
A recent Singapore Institute of Management-Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology graduate, now joining Ernst & Young as an audit associate, Ms Devika spent four months – after college and on weekends – crafting the masterpiece entirely by hand using acrylics and marker pens on paper.
Inspired by her mother, also an artist, Ms Devika taught herself Madhubani – a 2,500-year-old folk art from Bihar’s Mithila region known for its fine lines, symbolism, mythological storytelling, and vibrant motifs of nature.
Through this artwork, she says she hoped to weave her Indian heritage into the story of Singapore’s 60-year journey as a multicultural, inclusive, environmentally conscious nation.
Framed within a fish-shaped border to signify Singapore’s origins as a fishing village and island nation, the composition celebrates the Lion City through a traditional lens.
The top features Jurong Bird Park with peacocks, hornbills, and lush flora. The centre oval showcases Singapore’s skyline – Marina Bay Sands, Merlion, Esplanade, Gardens by the Bay – surrounded by cultural motifs reflecting the Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnic communities.
The SG60 emblem sits proudly in the heart, while the lower panel illustrates Madhubani-styled wildlife from Singapore Zoo, honouring the country’s conservation efforts.
Ms Devika said: “This was my heartfelt tribute to the country that embraced me. Painting brought me peace, helped me disconnect from screens, and allowed me to express gratitude through my culture.”
The artwork caught the eye of Jurong Spring-Gek Poh MP Hamid Razak during a house visit three months ago. “I was moved by Devika’s spontaneous love for Singapore and the way she captured our multiculturalism through art. Featured at our carnival, it has resonated deeply with residents. Art truly speaks beyond words,” he said.
The Jurong Spring Community Club loved the piece so much that it will now appear on limited-edition recyclable tote bags, which will be distributed to residents as part of SG60 celebrations – allowing the community to carry a piece of Ms Devika’s storytelling in their daily lives.
“At just 22, Devika has beautifully combined Singapore’s SG60 spirit with traditional Madhubani to create a historic record,” said Mr Ong Eng Huat, president of the Singapore Book of Records. “Her dedication and decision to donate it to the community are truly commendable.”
Ms Devika hopes her story inspires other young Singaporeans to embrace both innovation and heritage: “Singapore is a rojak nation, and this artwork is a celebration of unity in diversity. I’m honoured it will now live on in the hearts – and hands – of the Jurong Spring community.”
