CENTRE FOR INDIAN ARTS

Abstract

Indians in Singapore are faced with the problem, of how to prevent the further erosion of traditional religions, rites, rituals, Indian culture ( dance, music, literature, drama, etc.) and customs among the young. In a speech on the disappearance of many of the customary Hindu rites and rituals that used to be practised here, Prof. N. Krishnamurthy, of the National University of Singapore, said that the younger generation tends to turn to other religions and culture (e.g. pop music) which appeared more trendy and fashionable to them. The result of this shift of interest in their spiritual and cultural life is due to influence of the West. Therefore, there is a need to educate the younger generation the Indian fine arts so as to provide them with some sort of ballast against the deculturalisation process. Meanwhile, Indian culture must reach out to the masses so as to encourage cross-cultural participation between races and will result in greater appreciation and understanding of Indian Arts and Culture. The thesis project is a facilitation towards this process. Issues I. Understanding Architecture as a cultural symbol. To project a symbolic image of "Indianness". 2. The notion of cultural continuity. By re-integrating traditional and vernacular Indian Architecture in the Singapore context. 3. Study into the urban fabric of Serangoon and to response in context with the existing fabric. By locating the proposed centre at the realm of rich Indian cultural district (i.e. Little India in Serangoon) next to the Sri Veeramakalimann Hindu Temple , this proposed Arts Centre will further enhance the richness and essence of Indian culture. It provides the visitors an aspect of Indian Arts through learning, performing and researching. The proposed facilities together with the immediate Indian environment will serve as a window into the world of Indian Cultural, artistic religious and culinary achievements and activities, for outsiders as well as insiders. This project aims to seek an inter-relationship between the traditional Indian architecture and the context of modem Singapore