For generations, Hindu families used to gather by the sea at dawn, in open coastal areas or public pavilions, to honour their departed as they perform sacred post-funeral rites, often with limited privacy, unpredictable weather conditions, and curious onlookers.
Those rituals can now take place with greater privacy and comfort, thanks to the opening of the Karma Kaariya Nilayam (Hindu Rites Facility) at Changi Beach, a purpose-built facility offering families a sheltered and dignified space for these ceremonies.
Located near Car Park 2 at 255 Nicoll Drive, the facility was officially opened on Dec 29, marking a significant milestone in meeting a long-standing community need.
Developed and managed by the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB), the centre accommodates rituals such as 13th-day or 16th-day ceremonies and karumathi prayers (Hindu rites that mark the formal conclusion of a roughly two-week mourning period) in a weather-protected environment.
According to Mr Satish Appoo, secretary of HEB and co-chair of the project committee, the new venue allows families to pay their final respects without any disruptions.
“This space offers peace, privacy, and dignity during an emotionally difficult period,” he said, adding that the initiative was conceived to ease both logistical and emotional stress for grieving families.
The new centre comprises four individual halls, each measuring some 20 square metres and capable of accommodating up to 12 people. The halls are separated by collapsible partitions, enabling larger families to combine and reserve two adjoining halls if required.
Each hall is equipped with essential amenities, including seating, lighting, water supply, ritual vessels, plates, and waste management provisions. Families are only required to bring their own prayer items.
Wheelchair-friendly access and elder-friendly features have also been incorporated in the facility.
The project was first announced in 2020 and completed after about one-and-a-half years of construction at a cost of approximately S$550,000, fully funded by HEB.
Mr Satish said that additional time was needed to secure coastal land and coordinate approvals with multiple government agencies, including the Singapore Land Authority, the National Parks Board, and the National Environment Agency.
Following construction, a three-month trial run was conducted in collaboration with several temples, including the Sri Sivan Temple, the Sri Arasakesari Sivan Temple, and the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. More than 100 families participated in the pilot phase, providing feedback on the convenience and suitability of the facilities.
Priest Veerappan Ramesh from Sri Arasakesari Sivan Temple said that the Hindu community had long hoped for a roofed and well-organised space for such rites. Families, he noted, appreciated the privacy and shelter from the rain, especially during monsoon months.
The facility operates on a self-service model. One can make a two-hour booking for S$50 via the website www.kkn.org.sg.
Payments are made through PayNow, after which users receive an access link via email and SMS to unlock the automated entry gate upon arrival.
While the centre provides the venue and basic amenities, families are responsible for arranging priests and making their own arrangements for the immersion of ashes at sea, as such services are not offered on-site.
While a staff member has been appointed to oversee cleanliness, users are requested to clear ritual items after use.
HEB expressed hope that this thoughtfully designed facility will help families focus fully on their prayers and remembrance, offering comfort and support during times of loss.
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23 Dec 2025 19:37
