This Singaporean dish was invented by Indian migrants. Have you tried it?
Ancient trade to modern travel, Singapore feels like home for Indians. From Little India to Laksa, here's how Singapore keeps Indian culture and cuisines alive.
Did you know India and Singapore share many similarities across culture, history and cuisine, creating a sense of connection that resonates with Indian travellers. India and Singapore are both vibrant multicultural societies where diverse communities coexist and celebrate their traditions.
The untold connection between India and Singapore
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Renjie Wong, Area Director of India, Middle East and South Asia (Mumbai) - Singapore Tourism Board, shared, “In Singapore, the widespread use of Tamil, Mandarin and Malay mirrors India's rich linguistic diversity, while festivals like Deepavali and Thaipusam are observed with the same enthusiasm in both nations. The Indian Heritage Centre stands as a testament to the deep historical ties between the two, and during festive seasons, Singapore’s streets come alive with sarees, lehenga cholis and sherwanis, echoing the celebratory spirit of India. Little India, with its bustling markets, temples and cultural landmarks, further enhances this sense of familiarity for Indian travellers.”
Beyond cultural traditions, the historical and economic ties between the two nations run deep. Renjie Wong revealed, “Positioned along ancient maritime trade routes, Singapore was shaped by the same merchant networks that linked India to the Far East. The very name Simha Pura, derived from Sanskrit, and its origins as a Hindu-Buddhist kingdom highlight India’s enduring influence on Singapore’s identity. However, the most profound connection between the two countries lies in their people. The Indian diaspora has been an integral part of Singapore’s story since its founding, and today, this relationship continues to thrive. To spotlight the many facets of Singapore from both local and Indian perspectives, 60 Insiders, a panel of prominent personalities from both countries, has been curated by us to offer expert insights on the destination.”
Spicy secrets:
The food culture in both countries is also rich and diverse, with bold flavours and a shared love for spices. Renjie Wong said, “Indian cuisine has had a significant impact on Singapore's food scene, with popular dishes like Chicken Biryani, Masala Dosa and Roti Prata enjoyed by many. A prime example of how food bridges cultures is the creation of Fish Head Curry, a unique dish developed by Indian migrants in Singapore. Similarly, in India, influences from Southeast Asia, such as Laksa-inspired curries, can be found in the southern regions.”
He added, “Both countries also have a strong street food culture and cater to vegetarian preferences, with local restaurants like Komala Vilas and Ananda Bhavan offering familiar dishes that remind Indian travellers of home. To celebrate this shared legacy of vibrant flavours, later this year, we will be launching a Singapore inspired programming, honouring the rich resonances between India and Singapore through food and design along with Subko – Specialty Coffee Roasters, Bakehouse, and Fine Cacao.”
Insisting that for Indian travellers, Singapore feels like a home away from home, where familiar flavours, languages and traditions create an immediate sense of belonging, Renjie Wong said, “The city’s warm hospitality, thriving Indian communities and vibrant festival celebrations, particularly around Serangoon Road, make it an easy and inviting destination. Whether dining at an iconic Indian eatery or shopping at Mustafa Centre and Little India Arcade, Singapore seamlessly blends heritage with modernity, offering an experience that is both exciting and reassuring.”
He concluded, “Adding to this deep cultural resonance, HIDDEN GEMS, an upcoming initiative by us with one of India’s celebrated artists, will take audiences on a unique musical journey later this year. Set to reveal Singapore’s best-kept secrets through an evocative blend of urban sounds and melodies that feel like home, this experience will offer Indian visitors a fresh yet familiar perspective of the city.”
