By Jai Kousalyan Balasubramanian (26S03A, President)
The Indian Cultural Society (ICS) is committed to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the richness of Indian culture with the school and wider community.
Through a variety of events, performances, and outreach initiatives, ICS provides students with opportunities to develop their talents, learn more about their heritage, and foster cross-cultural appreciation. Our activities range from large-scale cultural showcases and competitions to meaningful service opportunities, all designed to nurture creativity, teamwork, and community spirit.
Sangamam ‘24
Sangamam 2024 was a vibrant cultural celebration that brought together students through dance, music, and drama. The showcase featured three unique acts, each exploring themes of colonialism, love, and the pursuit of passion.
Beyond performances, the event also provided a platform for junior secondary school students to display their talents through competitions, encouraging participation from younger learners. Sangamam not only celebrated the diversity of Indian arts but also highlighted the creativity and dedication of our members. The event fostered school-wide appreciation of Indian heritage while inspiring cultural pride among participants.
Indian Arts Fiesta – Parai Percussion Team
Our ICS Parai Percussion team proudly represented the school at the Indian Arts Fiesta, an event that made history by clinching a world record. The Fiesta brought together thousands of participants, including members of the public, to play Indian percussion instruments in unison.
Contributing to such a record-breaking feat was a rewarding experience for our members, who showcased their skills while being part of a cultural milestone. The performance reflected both the traditional vibrancy of Parai (Indian drum) and the unifying power of music.
AI Enrichment Workshop
In an effort to blend tradition with innovation, ICS conducted an AI enrichment workshop for its members. Students were introduced to a wide range of AI tools for content creation; including song composition, graphic design, and creative writing.
This initiative encouraged members to harness modern technology in meaningful ways while enhancing their creative output. By equipping students with these skills, the workshop prepared them for future opportunities where culture and technology intersect.
The session was both educational and highly engaging, broadening members’ perspectives on the possibilities of digital creativity.
Teachers’ Day Performance
As part of the school’s Teachers’ Day celebrations, ICS members staged a lively performance featuring music and dance. The performance was warmly received by the school population, reflecting the society’s ability to bring joy and cultural vibrancy to the school community.
Students showcased their artistic talents while expressing gratitude to teachers through the arts. This event further strengthened the bond between ICS and the broader school body, leaving a lasting impression on both staff and students alike.
STYC “Ucham” Short Film Competition
Members of ICS took part in the Singapore Tamil Youth Club’s “Ucham” short film competition, where our entry secured second place. The competition provided a creative platform for students to express ideas through storytelling and filmmaking.
Our team demonstrated strong collaboration, technical skill, and cultural awareness, which contributed to the success of the film. The achievement was a proud moment that inspired members to continue pursuing creative excellence.
Deepavali and Pongal Booths
To celebrate the major Indian festivals of Deepavali and Pongal, ICS organized festive booths for the school community. Students and staff enjoyed a variety of Indian sweets and snacks, including sweet pongal, murukku, and traditional Indian tea.
The booths also featured traditional games and hands-on activities such as lamp painting, allowing non-Indian students to experience Indian culture firsthand. These events fostered cultural exchange, inclusivity, and appreciation for Indian traditions. The warm response highlighted the power of food and games in building community spirit.
Krishna Free Meals Volunteering
ICS members engaged in meaningful service through volunteering at Krishna Free Meals, an initiative that prepares and distributes daily meals to migrant workers. Our role included preparing ingredients, such as cutting vegetables and assisting in the kitchen.
This experience was both humbling and insightful, as it allowed students to contribute directly to the wellbeing of a community that often goes unnoticed. The activity reinforced ICS’s values of giving back and making a positive impact beyond the school environment.
Pongal Performance at Toa Payoh West CC
In celebration of Pongal, ICS members performed a traditional dance and parai routine at Toa Payoh West Community Centre. The performance highlighted the significance of Pongal as a harvest festival and showcased the rich traditions of Indian performing arts.
By participating, members not only celebrated their heritage but also engaged the wider community in cultural appreciation. The event strengthened bonds between the school and the community while offering a platform for students to grow as cultural ambassadors.
Vaanavil Competitions
ICS proudly organized the Vaanavil Tamil literary competitions for Primary 5 students from seven schools. The event aimed to foster love for the Tamil language through interactive and engaging activities.
Students participated in word association challenges and explored creative uses of Tamil proverbs, making the learning experience lively and memorable. Parents and teachers were invited to witness the performances, further strengthening the sense of community and collaboration. Vaanavil not only celebrated Tamil heritage but also inspired younger students to take pride in their cultural identity.
National Debate Series -Sorsilambam’25
The debaters pitted their debating skills against fellow JC students and emerged joint 2nd runner-up in the National Debate Series -Sorsilambam’25. Presanna Poopathy Raj emerged as the best speaker in the quarter finals.
Digital Launch of SG60 Singapore Tamils by NLB
Our members volunteered as ushers during the Digital Launch of the Tamils jointly organised by NLB and Centre for Tamil Culture as part of SG60 celebrations which was graced by his Excellency President Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam. It was an enriching experience for them connecting with the public and the Tamil diaspora.
ICS is moving forward with new initiatives that will add value to the activities which will be exemplary, innovative and inclusive. With the ideas put forth by the members of ICS with the cultural element deeply embedded, our objective has always been to reach out to all Rafflesians and the society at large.
