With just over a week to go for Diwali, Indians all over the world are gearing up for the celebration of their lives. So it’s no surprise that Singapore – a country that is home to one of the largest Indian populations abroad – is also joining in the festive spirit. This year, they’ve really gone all out and the famous Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) will have its own Diwali-themed train.
Singapore’s Land Transport Authority, in collaboration with the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association (LISHA), set up this venture on October 15. Transport Minister Mr. Khaw Boon Wan inagurated the train and it will run on the North-East line through till mid November. The train is bedecked in colourful rangoli patterns and floral designs in traditional Diwali style. There are also two stations in the Little India district with similar decorations so any Indians in the area are sure to feel at home.
This project aims to bring people together in celebration and spread a little extra joy and colour. Of course, the Indian community has always been prominent in Singapore, with Tamil even being listed as one of the National languages. But this gesture on the part of the government is a touching tribute to a foreign community that a lot of other countries could learn from.

Featured Image Courtesy Land Transport Authority