The Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) at Campbell Lane in Little India is hosting a range of cultural programmes, performances and workshops till Nov 12 for the public to soak in the Deepavali festivities.
“This year, we have something different,” said IHC general manager Maria Bhavani Dass, adding that there will be four themes – Food, Fashion, Arts and Mythology – to the Deepavali Open House this year.
“There will be unique themes introduced each weekend. This aims to attract not only Indians, but also people of other races, to learn about Deepavali on a deeper level.”
The first weekend will feature a cooking demonstration of Hyderabad meat biryani, fusing tradition and innovation. Chef Devagi will also show how to make the biryani with meat substitutes, bringing a delightful twist to a beloved classic.
Visitors can learn to make traditional sweets at the Kids Ladoo Making and Storytelling session on Oct 14. Join Diya and her grandmother as they prepare for Deepavali and learn about the magic and traditions of the festival.
South Indian cuisine will come into focus on Oct 15 when Chef Anand Kumar holds a class on how to make thosai and chutneys. There is also a Food Trail where visitors can take in the smell of spices, vibrant scenes and colourful street art, as well as sample delicious street food.
The art of putting on a sari can be learnt at the Indian Fashion and Sari Draping Masterclass on Oct 21. Often accompanying the sari is Indian jewellery, and its rich heritage will be on display on Oct 21 and 22.
From Oct 26 to Nov 5, visitors can immerse themselves in Indian artistic traditions, such as Tanjore and Pichvai paintings, and a candlelight kathak performance.
The Mythology section has engaging workshops lined up, including an immersive experience of the love story of Hindu god Krishna and goddess Radha through the Dramatized Gallery Tour.
Little India, abuzz with Deepavali festivities and shoppers busy making preparations for the festival, is the place to be for those looking to soak up the atmosphere this season.
Deepavali will be celebrated on Nov 12.
