Hinduism in Singapore

Hindu religion and culture in Singapore can be traced to the 7th century AD, when Temasek was a trading post of Hindu-Buddhist Srivijaya empire.

[2][3] As with Malay peninsula, the British administration sought to stabilise a reliable labour force in its regional plantation and trading activities; it encouraged Hindus to bring family through the kangani system of migration, settle, build temples and segregated it into a community that later became Little India.

Unlike various states of Malaysia and Indonesia, Singapore places no restrictions on religious freedoms of Hindus.

The colonial era brought major changes in the seats of power and religious influence in the region.

Their arrival saw the building of temples throughout the island in the Dravidian form of architecture, and the beginnings of a vibrant Hindu culture.

Though the labourers were mostly responsible for introducing and preserving their religion in their new home, in later times, monetary contributions were made by the richer Hindu merchants to build up the makeshift shacks that served as their place of worship.

This style is known for its imposing 'gopurams' or entrance towers, complex friezes, intricate carvings and paintings or murals done on the walls and ceilings.

There are currently about thirty main temples in Singapore, dedicated to various gods and goddesses from the Hindu pantheon.

Hindus make up a minority, comprising about 5.1% (2010 Census) of adult Singapore citizens and permanent residents.

The small numbers of non-Indian Hindus are mainly Chinese and Malay women who were adopted by or married into Hindu families.