Tamil Murasu – Deepavali Tea Event Fosters Religious Harmony
The annual Interfaith Deepavali Tea Event, organised by the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB) and the Hindu Advisory Board (HAB), took place on Wednesday (November 27).
More than 175 people, including religious leaders, members, and foundation heads from Singapore’s 10 major religions, attended the event at the PGP Hall of Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple.
The event was also attended by seniors from Sree Narayana Mission, residents of Ren Ci @ Woodlands, youth participating in the National University Hospital’s ‘Project Dreamcatchers’ programme, and students enrolled in the ‘Living Culture’ module at the National University of Singapore.
Mr. Murali Pillai, Minister of State for Law and Transport attended the event as Guest of Honour.
In his GOH speech, Mr. Murali highlighted that while ethnic and religious conflicts are prevalent worldwide, Singapore is no exception. He emphasized that such programmes offer a valuable platform for the respectful exchange of ideas on complex issues.
To commemorate the event, the Hindu Endowments Board and the Hindu Advisory Board jointly presented a check for $30,000 to the All-Faith Forum in the presence of Mr. Murali.
“For the past seven years, we have demonstrated our support for the All-Faith Forum’s activities through this event,” said Rajan Krishnan, chairman of the Hindu Endowments Board.
He also said that efforts to strengthen inter-faith harmony are not only the responsibility of religious leaders but that we all must play our part in building a non-violent and united world. The audience were entertained by Bharatanatyam and Kathak dances performed by the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS), as well as a traditional dance performance by ‘Soorya Singapore’.
Additionally, as part of the event, members of the Hindu Youth Network (Singapore) delivered a presentation on the art and architecture of various religions.
Hindu Advisory Board Chairman, Sengkuttuvan Kanniappan, said that Deepavali is even more special when celebrated on temple premises alongside people of other faiths, and such events highlight Singapore’s religious harmony.
He also mentioned that there are plans to host more similar events next year to celebrate Singapore’s 60th birthday, focusing on unity between religions and cultures.
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