The Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS) is set to present the 22nd edition of its annual Festival of Arts from April 17 to May 3, bringing together more than 200 Singapore-based artistes in a vibrant celebration of Indian classical music, dance and visual arts.
Organised by SIFAS Productions, the 17-day festival marks a significant milestone as it unfolds at SIFAS’ newly renovated premises at Middle Road, following its move from Starlight Road after more than three decades. The festival will also feature key performances at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay.
Themed “Infinite Rasa”, the festival draws inspiration from the classical Indian aesthetic concept of rasa, which explores the expression of human emotions through art. This year’s edition aims not only to showcase artistic excellence but also to create an immersive cultural experience that resonates with Singapore’s multicultural audience.
The Middle Road campus will be transformed into a lively cultural hub, anchored by a newly built open-air amphitheatre that will host performances accessible to the wider public.
Landscaped spaces will come alive as a festive village, featuring a visual arts exhibition by SIFAS students, interactive craft stations, and a culinary and crafts bazaar that brings together traditions, stories and communities.
The festival is expected to attract over 15,000 attendees, reflecting its growing appeal as a key platform for Indian arts in Singapore.
Central to the festival is SIFAS’ mission of preserving heritage while nurturing the next generation of artistes. The programme will feature a blend of seasoned performers and emerging talents, including SIFAS students and alumni, alongside distinguished artistes from India.
This cross-generational exchange ensures the continuity and evolution of traditional art forms within a contemporary local context.
Festival highlights at the Esplanade include Bhumi – Feel the Beat on April 25, a special concert by SIFAS alumni under the artistic direction of noted musician Sikkil Gurucharan. The production explores the relationship between humanity and the earth through evocative music and poetry.
This will be followed by DWI – Two Voices, One Soul on April 26, a jugalbandhi featuring acclaimed vocalists Aruna Sairam and Kaushiki Chakraborty, presenting a dynamic interplay between Carnatic and Hindustani traditions.
The Esplanade programme will conclude with anumarga – Seeking a Path on May 2 and 3, presented by Project Samskriti and featuring dancer Radhe Jaggi. The production explores themes of devotion, drawing from the stories of the gopis of Vrindavan and their spiritual connection to Krishna.
Speaking about the festival, SIFAS Productions Executive Director Menaka Gopalan said the theme “Infinite Rasa” reflects an effort to make Indian classical arts both accessible and relevant today. She noted that the festival brings together artistes across generations, creating a space for continuity while opening up performances to the broader community through the new amphitheatre.
Now in its 77th year, SIFAS continues to play a vital role in Singapore’s cultural landscape, acting as a bridge between generations and communities. Through initiatives such as the Festival of Arts, the organisation seeks to deepen appreciation of Indian heritage while fostering cultural exchange and social cohesion.
Tickets for the festival are available via SISTIC from April 2.
