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Singapore Pooram on 28 May 2023
As Singapore gears up to host the second edition of the much-awaited Singapore Pooram on May 28, 2023, the excitement is palpable among the Malayalee and Indian communities residing in the island nation. The event is set to take place at The Meadow, The Gardens by the Bay, and promises to be a grand celebration of culture, music, and art.
The very first Singapore Pooram was held in 2019 and was a huge success, attracting people from all walks of life, not just the Indian community. The festivities included the Chendamelam (percussion), the Anachamayam (exhibition of the fineries used to decorate elephants for Elephant pageants!), Thalappoli, and other cultural events. The crowd was electrifying, and the positive energy was contagious, leaving a lasting impression on all those who attended.
What is Singapore Pooram
For the uninitiated, Singapore Pooram is a miniature version of the world-famous Thrissur Pooram, which takes place every year in the Indian state of Kerala. The Singapore Pooram is organized by the Pooram Committee, formed every year with the support of all other cultural organizations in Singapore.
What can you expect in Singapore Pooram 2023?
Pooram Highlights
- “Percussion Ensemble” for ~5 hours led by melam wizard Padmashri Mattannoor Sankarankutty Marar & Shri Chottanikkara Vijayan Marar and a squad of 43 acclaimed artists from Kerala.
- Kudamaattom (traditional ceremony involving the exchange of brightly coloured umbrellas) on Caparisoned Robotic Elephant – First time ever in the soil of Singapore!
- Thalapoli (line up of girls&women carrying plates decorated with flowers, lamps, and other auspicious items)
- Mega Group Song – Indian Medley (300 + Artists) Singapore Book of Records !!!
- Anachamayam (exhibition of the fineries used to decorate elephants for Elephant pageants!)
- Cultural shows by local artists & Multi-Cultural Grand Finale
- Prestigious venue – The Meadow- Gardens by the Bay
- Biggest Indian event of the year – 20000 + audience.
- Major Collaboration with all Indian Associations in Singapore, and supported by Indian High Commission and Indian Heritage Centre
- Kids carnival
- Eateries and entertainment.
This year’s Singapore Pooram promises to be an even more exciting affair, with several new and unique features. The spotlight of the event will be the quintessential Pooram element of the “Percussion Ensemble,” a five-hour presentation led by melam wizard Padmashri Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar and Shri Chottanikkara Vijayan Marar, along with a squad of 43 accomplished artists from India.
Another highlight of the event is the Kudamattom on Robotic Caparisoned Elephant, the first-ever in the soil of Singapore. The robotic elephant will amplify the excitement and make the event even more memorable.
The Cultural Grand Finale is also expected to be a show-stopper, with a multi-cultural collaboration of Thai, Chinese, Sri Lankan, and Malay artists, in addition to the Indian communities along with percussion fusion. Other events include the Thalapoli (line up of girls and women carrying plates decorated with flowers and other auspicious items), a Mega Group Song – Indian Medley (400 + Artists), and activities for children.
How to get the entry tickets?
The Singapore Pooram is a major collaboration with all Indian associations in Singapore and is supported by the Indian High Commission and Indian Heritage Centre. So, if you haven’t already got your tickets, grab them from their official website and experience the thrill of this cultural extravaganza.
Note: 5 years and above need tickets.
Singapore Pooram 2023 Program Schedule
As an Indian living in Singapore, I can personally attest to the excitement and joy that the Singapore Pooram brings to everyone, regardless of their background. It’s an excellent opportunity to witness and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India and Kerala, in particular. The music, dance, and colours all come together to create an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the event is over.
If you’re looking for an authentic Indian cultural experience in Singapore, the Singapore Pooram is an event not to be missed. It’s a perfect amalgamation of tradition and modernity, and it’s a testament to the strong ties that the Indian and Malayalee communities share with Singapore. So, mark your calendars, and we’ll see you all at The Meadow, The Gardens by the Bay on May 28, 2023.