15,000 attend Deepavali festivities at the Istana despite afternoon showers

SINGAPORE — Today (Nov 10)’s afternoon showers did little to dampen Deepavali festivities at the Istana, with nearly 15,000 people showing up on the grounds, which was open to the public in celebration of the religious holiday.

Tourists and Singaporeans alike flocked in to soak up the atmosphere, with babies and elderly parents in tow, and armed with umbrellas, raincoats and selfie sticks.

Performances — including ones by a ukulele group, an Indian cultural dance group and symphonic wind orchestra — livened up the atmosphere while visitors strolled around and took in the lush greenery.

One of them was first-time visitor Ms Manju, 30, who shared that she had “never imagined so much green in the middle of the city". The permanent resident of six years planned to head home later to enjoy a meal with her family and friends.

Ms Amrita Sindhar, 25, had brought her friend from India as she felt that it was a “great place to enjoy the holiday". Others, like teacher Karen Teo, 42, had organised a get-together with nearly 10 others. She said: “The kids are so excited...To them it’s like a sacred place, getting to step into the Istana.”

President Tony Tan and his wife were also present to greet the public, with Dr Tan pausing at the snake display set up by Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Ms Sunita Nair, who is the dance coordinator of the Sembawang Silver Stars, was also thrilled at the opportunity to perform before the president. She said: “It’s our first time performing at the Istana, and we’ve been practicing for the last three weeks... It’s an honour.”