Understanding the Indian Community in Singapore

From Tamils to Malayalees, from Bengalis to Punjabis, the diverse Indian community in Singapore has played a large part in building the country. To understand the Indian community, one must know certain basic facts about them.

First is their love for culture which transcends religious and linguistic differences. Some of the best classical Hindustani singers are Muslims. The best Malayalam singer of Hindu religious songs is a Christian.

Second is their love of debates. Argument is part of Indian tradition because of the belief that truth can only be arrived at vigorous debate.

The third characteristic is the community's respect for education. Indians, across castes and religions have always venerated knowledge and learning as being a value in itself.

The fourth characteristic of the Indians is their devoutness: they take their religious duties seriously and perform them regularly.

This celebratory volume highlights the progress, contributions and challenges of the community for the past 50 years since Singapore's independence in 1965.