The attractions, monuments, architecture, and cuisine all reflect Singapore’s blend of cultures and visitors to this nation are afforded a memorable holiday. Though the culture of the country is a blend of various customs, the different celebrations of the Malays, Arabs, Chinese and the Tamils are an intriguing and interesting contrast. Each community with its own traditions celebrates their festivals adding to the already exotic ethnicity of Singapore.

One such interesting festival is the Thaipusam which is celebrated by the Tamil community. It is a festival popular in other countries such as South India, Malaysia and Sri Lanka where there is a significant Hindu society. The festival of Thaipusam is held every year to honour the devotion of ‘Idumban’, who is a follower of Lord Subramaniam.

According to legend a heavenly messenger instructed Idumban to take offering up a hill to pay respect to Lord Subramaniam. As he was much devoted to his Lord, Idumban obeyed these orders and to ease the climb with the heavy offering he sang hymns praying the Lord as he climbed the hill. Lord Subramanium showered many blessings on Idumban as he was pleased with the devotion. Therefore since that day devotees of Lord Subramaniam paraded with ‘Kavadi’ on their shoulders and made their way to his shrine in order to gain blessings from him.

Generally this parade is prepared months ahead and devotees taking part would have to remain vegetarian for a while. This colourful pageant starts off at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and goes on for about 3 km and reaches the shrine at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. The main attraction in this pageant is the ‘Kavadis’ and the whole Little India district of Singapore comes alive with festive spirit.

Visitors interested in the Thaipusam festival, and other such vibrant celebration in Singapore can base themselves close to the various districts depending on the season as well the festivals they are interested in. Most find Singapore serviced apartments really convenient when their agenda is full of explorations. For a perfect Singaporean indulgence try a luxury serviced apartment Singapore at Ascott Raffles Place Singapore and experience the perfect far-eastern holiday.