SMS Murali Pillai with Indian Communities after Plaque Presentation

CELEBRATION UNITES COMMUNITIES WHILE EXPANDING ACCESS TO SOCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES

The Little India Shop Owners and Heritage Association (LISHA) partnered with the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) to host the Indian New Year Celebrations 2026 at the PGP Auditorium, Singapore, bringing together culture, community engagement and social outreach.

Held on 19 April 2026, the event gathered close to 15 ethnic Indian communities, showcasing Singapore’s diverse Indian heritage through traditional music, dance and cultural presentations. As a long-standing cultural steward of the Little India precinct, LISHA continues to promote inclusivity and heritage preservation through such large-scale community initiatives.

A key highlight of the celebration was the official launch of the SINDA Bus, a mobile platform designed to extend SINDA’s programmes and services directly into neighbourhoods across Singapore. The initiative aims to improve accessibility by reducing barriers for families and individuals seeking support, while fostering closer community connections.

SMS Murali Pillai Launches the SINDA Bus

Chairman of LISHA, Mr Regunarth (Siva), described the collaboration as a meaningful reflection of shared values, noting that the Indian New Year symbolises renewal, unity and purpose. He added that the partnership with SINDA underscores a joint commitment to both cultural preservation and community upliftment.

Echoing this sentiment, SINDA Chief Executive Officer Mr Anbarasu Rajendran highlighted that the SINDA Bus represents an important step in strengthening outreach efforts. By bringing services closer to residents, the initiative seeks to encourage greater participation in programmes ranging from early childhood literacy initiatives such as “Book Wizards” to health screenings and community engagement activities for seniors.

SMS Murali Pillai Engaging with the Kids in a Storytelling Session

The bus will operate across various locations islandwide and will also feature at SINDA-led and partner events throughout the year, supporting a broader range of community-focused programmes.

The collaboration between LISHA and SINDA reflects a combined effort to celebrate cultural identity while advancing social development. Through initiatives such as the Indian New Year Celebrations and the launch of the SINDA Bus, both organisations aim to reinforce a sense of unity and shared progress within Singapore’s Indian community.

For more information and media queries on the SINDA Bus, please contact: 
Hetvi Shah (Ms)
Executive, Corporate and Marketing
Communications Division, SINDA
DID: 6393 6264 
Mobile: 9654 8924                                                         
Email: hetvi@sinda.org.sg

For more information and media queries for LISHA, please contact: 
Gloria Steven (Ms)
General Manager, LISHA                          
Mobile: 9149 6744  
Email: gloria.steven@lisha.org.sg