As captivating as the lights are at Little India, there’s nothing more satisfying than getting in on those discounts that you’ve been waiting all year for.
It’s that time of year again when Little India lights up in a kaleidoscope of glorious colours.
The Festival of Lights also alludes to the spiritual discovery of one’s inner light as well.
But there’s nothing better than to celebrate a holiday by shopping and exploring the sights (especially if you’ve never partaken in the Deepavali festivities in Singapore before!)
Check out our list of recommendations of where to shop this Deepavali.
1. Mustafa Centre
At Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mega department store in Little India that spans six storeys, there’s just about every product imaginable, from jewellery to furniture to electronics to Indian ethnic wear.
The snack aisle alone features varied treats from the UAE to the UK.
What many people don’t know is that it houses a rooftop restaurant as well, Kebabs ‘n Curries, whose menu of Indian classics should be awarded a Michelin star.
With the cheapest deals in town, Mustafa Centre has become a mecca for budget shoppers. For instance, a bottle of Coca Cola costs $1.75 at Mustafa and $2.05 at NTUC.
And before you brush it off as just a mundane supermarket, get this: it has a section selling records and vinyl turntables, as well as old-school safety razors from Japan.
Just know that large bags aren’t allowed within the premise, so they have to be left at the bag counter. Also, it gets rather packed during the weekends, so it’s best to do your shopping early morning or late night.
145 Syed Alwi Road, 207704
2. Zak Salaam India Expo 2019
Also known as The Mega Family Expo, this four-day discounts galore is like an IT Fair, except for Deepavali shopping.
It celebrates Deepavali by taking over part of the Singapore Expo with endless booths of diverse retailers.
One day is not enough to cover the entire premise and marvel at the variety of trendy leather bags, ethnic dresses, copper goblets, ornate statuettes and other handicrafts available.
Not to mention, plenty of its vendors come from India, bringing the most authentic (and affordable) designs and brands to you.
The free-entry event also includes a line-up of stage performances, games and cooking competitions.
1 Expo Drive, Hall 5B, 486150
3. Deepavali Festival Village
The Deepavali Festival Village is a staple in Singapore, a long-standing annual bazaar that sets up shop along Campbell Lane in Little India.
Organised by the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association, it takes place this year in conjunction with the Deepavali Hipster Bazaar, which focuses more on food offerings.
Packed with rows and rows of vendors, it houses myriad festival-related decorations, intricate figurines and collectible curios, among other things.
Don’t miss the seasonal snacks either: you can’t go wrong with gifting murukkus (a savoury and crunchy Indian snack) and mithai (traditional Indian desserts and snacks)!
Campbell Lane, 209922
By Marie Cheng, October 2019 / Additional reporting by Melodi Ghui. Photos: Shutterstock/Instagram/Twitter
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More on The Finder:
5 Places In Singapore To Get SPECIAL Indian Sweet TREATS To Try This Deepavali
The Beginner’s Guide To Celebrating Deepavali In Singapore
Recipes, Tips And More: The Expat’s Guide To Hosting A Deepavali Dinner Party In Singapore
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