The Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS) celebrated 76 graduating students at its Academy Day 2026, underscoring its continuing role in nurturing a new generation of Indian classical artistes in Singapore.
The annual graduation celebration, held on Sept 5 at the Quantum Theatre at One World International School Digital Campus in Punggol, brought together students, families, gurus, educators and supporters.
Canada’s High Commissioner to Singapore Paul Thoppil was the Guest of Honour.
Of the 76 graduates, 20 received the prestigious Visharad Title and Best Student Award for excellence and achievement in their respective disciplines.
The evening also demonstrated the breadth of artistic training at SIFAS.
A total of 119 students took to the stage for five major presentations — Carnatic Orchestra, Hindustani Orchestra, Kathak Recital, Kuchipudi Recital and Bharatanatyam Recital.
Another 24 students participated in a Visual Arts Exhibition featuring 38 paintings.
The celebration was themed “Yasogatha – Saga of Glory”, reflecting both the students’ achievements and the continuing journey of SIFAS, which is marking its 77th year.
SIFAS president K.V. Rao recalled how the institution had grown from just 12 founding members in 1949 to become an established part of Singapore’s arts and cultural landscape.
“When institutions honour their past, serve their present and reimagine their future, they remain forever young,” he said. “That is the journey SIFAS is proudly undertaking.”
Mr Rao said the society’s move to new premises at Middle Road marked another important chapter, bringing “tradition, heritage and modernity together under one roof”.
“We are creating more opportunities to learn and perform, welcoming people across age groups, taking the arts to underserved communities, and using them to bring communities together,” he added.
Academy Day marks the culmination of students’ formal training while providing a platform for them to demonstrate their artistry before an audience.
SIFAS offers structured Certificate and Diploma pathways, with advanced titles including Sangeetha Visharad, Vadya Visharad, Natya Visharad and Kalaa Visharad.
Established in 1949, the society now provides training across 18 pan-Indian disciplines encompassing music, dance and visual arts. It also conducts performances, festivals, workshops, exhibitions and community programmes.
Beyond recognising individual achievement, Academy Day highlighted the ecosystem required to sustain classical arts – from gurus who pass down knowledge to families, staff, volunteers and supporters who encourage young practitioners.
For SIFAS, the 76 graduates therefore represented more than another graduating cohort. They are part of the next generation entrusted with keeping Indian classical traditions alive, relevant and accessible in Singapore.
