Sunday 17 October 2010

Singapore: Happy Deepavali

Sri Veeramakaliamman TempleThe Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in Serangoon Road was crammed with people celebrating Deepavali in Little India. Priests led small ceremonies in front of statues in the main hall and in alcoves around the outside of the building. Sweaty men prepared communal food in large kitchens which was soon to be consumed by the growing crowds of seated devotees. Bananas clearly play a bit part in these ceremonies.Deepavali Festival village, Serangoon Road

Further along Serangoon Road in the Deepavali Festival village, the heat in between the narrow stalls brought back memories of Delhi, although this market lacked the authentic smell of drains. Vivid colours of red, yellow and orange filled every available space at eye level and above. Mrs M wanted to buy strings of coloured lights decorated with flowers. I said no.

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