Arun Kumar Das/Singapore

Thousands of miles away from home, in the heart of Singapore, exists a vibrant “Little India” — a bustling pocket of the city where Indians live in peace, harmony and prosperity.

The Indian community in Singapore may be small, but it is a contented and closely knit one.

“We celebrate all festivals together, and we live in complete harmony here,” says Keerthi, a member of LISHA and owner of the popular Gandhi Restaurant.

Shopkeepers here have formed the Little India Shop Owners and Heritage Association (LISHA), which regularly organises cultural events on the occasions of Holi, Guru Parab, Diwali, Eid and Christmas.

An Indian restaurant in Singapore

Asked whether he has ever faced issues on racial or communal lines, he says, “Not at all. We live peacefully and with perfect understanding.”

As you explore the city and walk down Chander Road — part of what is popularly known as Little India — you will find a slice of home: Gandhi Restaurant, Madras Coffee, Azmi Chapati, Mustafa Centre, Akbar & Anand Stores, Zaman Centre, Smart Punjab, Khansama, Aakruti, Holi Department Store and many other familiar Indian names.

The area is buzzing with crowds and is a major attraction for foreigners and a must-visit for Indians travelling for tourism or business.

Gandhi Restaurant, established in the 1970s on Cuff Road before moving to Chander Road, has become a culinary landmark.

Keethi in his kltchen

Keerthi, the owner, says, “Our customers come from all over the world — Europeans, Chinese and of course Singaporeans.” Business is flourishing, and he is now exploring the possibility of opening another outlet in Malaysia.

“Our Chicken Biryani and Mutton Masala with lassi are especially popular with foreign visitors. We prepare everything most traditionally,” he says with pride. Whether it is biryani or just rice and dal, the restaurant maintains authenticity. And never compromise on quality.

Across the road, at Azmi Restaurant, owner Saifullah is busy at the tawa, making fresh rotis. “People love our roti and keema,” he says. There are items too, but this dish is a hot seller among the customers.

Madras Coffee is another favourite spot for the Indians. Pushpendra Singh has lived in Singapore for 18 years. He says, “Whenever I pass through this area, I stop for coffee and vada at Madras Coffee.” He belongs to Gwalior.

From barbers and florists to tailors and dress material shops, Indians prefer Indian-run establishments. As a result, these businesses thrive.

Indian restaurant in Singapore City

Flower and fabric shops take large orders during the wedding season. “Indian marriages are held traditionally, and everything needed is available in Little India,” says Keerthi.

In the evenings, the Kali Temple comes alive with devotees. Even attracts the attention of foreigners. Kim and her daughter Lily from Australia are drawn to the rituals. “I come here sometimes because it makes me feel good,” Kim says.

Isabel from the UK, who has lived in Singapore for three years, is also a regular visitor. “This is my second time. I enjoy the peaceful atmosphere,” she says.

Indian restaurant in Singapore City

At the Laxmi Narayan Temple, priest Acharya Surya Prakash, originally from Deoria in Uttar Pradesh, prepares prasad for the evening puja. “People from all walks of life come here,” he says. Simrat Singh from Gurdaspur is another regular. “I often visit the gurdwaras here as well,” he adds.

Among the other devotees is Raj Kaul, who is accompanied by his Chinese wife. “We feel at home here,” says Raj.

As Singapore celebrates 60 years of Independence, these local Indian businesses — custodians of trades honed over generations — have stood the test of time. Like a cup of coffee perfected over the years, they carry intangible cultural value and enrich the city’s diverse fabric.

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Singapore is known for its variety of religious beliefs and practices, shaped by its multicultural population. Often described as a melting pot or cultural mosaic, the country embraces traditions from around the world, just like India.