The Little India Shop Owners and Heritage Association (LISHA) proudly collaborated with the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) for the Indian New Year Celebrations 2026, that took place on the 19 April 2026 at the PGP Auditorium, Singapore.
As the cultural custodian of the Little India precinct, LISHA continues to champion heritage, unity and inclusivity through large-scale community celebrations. This year’s Indian New Year event brought together close to 15 ethnic Indian communities in Singapore, showcasing a rich tapestry of traditions, performances and cultural identity.
Mr Regunarth (Siva), Chairman of LISHA, shared “The Indian New Year is a time of renewal, unity and purpose. Partnering with SINDA for this celebration, especially with the launch of the SINDA Bus, reflects our shared vision of not only preserving culture but actively uplifting our community in meaningful and accessible ways.”
The event featured:
- A vibrant cultural showcase representing multiple Indian ethnic communities
- Traditional music and dance performances
- The official launch of the SINDA Bus
- Community engagement initiatives and stakeholder participation
The launch of a new SINDA Bus during this significant cultural celebration symbolises new beginnings. Serving as a mobile community engagement space, the Bus will bring SINDA’s programmes and resources directly into neighbourhoods — enhancing awareness and accessibility of its services while reducing barriers to access.
Through its on-ground presence at targeted locations islandwide, the Bus aims to build familiarity and rapport with residents, encouraging greater engagement with SINDA’s services. With several engagements planned for the year, the Bus will support a range of programmes such as the ‘Book Wizards’ reading programme for young children, elderly engagement activities such as health screenings, and activations at SINDA’s flagship and partner-led community events.
Mr Anbarasu Rajendran, CEO of SINDA, added, “The launch of the SINDA Bus reflects our continued efforts to strengthen community outreach. By positioning our services closer to residents, we hope to make support more accessible and build stronger connections with individuals and families we serve. Furthermore, this initiative was made even more meaningful through our collaboration with LISHA, especially as it coincides with the Indian New Year, symbolising new beginnings and togetherness.”
This collaboration between LISHA and SINDA exemplifies the power of partnership in celebrating heritage while advancing community development. By bringing together cultural custodianship and social support, the Indian New Year Celebrations 2026 not only honours tradition but also paves the way for more inclusive and impactful outreach. The joint efforts of both organisations reaffirm a shared commitment to unity, renewal and progress — ensuring that the spirit of the Indian New Year resonates meaningfully to all Singaporean Indians and supports them in meaningful ways.
Source: SINDA and LISHA’s joint press release
Photos courtesy: SINDA