1-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) In a heartwarming display of cultural celebration, Gurkha children residing in Singapore’s Mount Vernon Camp, also known as the Gurkha Cantonment, came together to commemorate the Nepali festival of Tihar. Through traditional folk songs and dances, these young members of the Gurkha community showcased their vibrant heritage.
The Gurkha Contingent, a renowned unit within Singapore’s Police Force composed of soldiers from Nepal, often remains unfamiliar to many Singaporeans. However, behind the scenes, their families live within the Gurkha Cantonment and partake in festivities that bring their unique traditions to life.
A viral TikTok video captured the essence of the celebrations as Nepali children and teenagers went door to door within the camp, joyfully singing folk songs called ‘Bhailo’ and ‘Deusi.’ The enchanting melodies resonated through the corridors, spreading cheer and providing a glimpse into their cultural practices.
The occasion also presented an opportunity for the Gurkha children to receive monetary contributions, akin to the tradition of receiving ang baos (red packets) during Chinese New Year. Some youngsters even carried their piggy banks, eagerly awaiting the chance to collect these thoughtful offerings.
Jules, the individual who shared the TikTok videos, revealed that toddlers typically received 10 to 20 cents for their singing, while older children could earn up to 50 cents. Groups of children who performed songs or dances together were occasionally rewarded with up to S$10, reflecting the community’s appreciation for their talents.
Although the individual amounts may seem modest, the cumulative effect is significant due to the large number of children participating in the festivities. Jules disclosed that over 200 children visited each house per night, and the celebrations spanned two nights. The contagious excitement surrounding this event can be attributed to the numerous blocks within the Gurkha Cantonment, providing an opportunity for children to receive what can be considered “free pocket money.”
Notably, it was not only young children who participated in the festivities. Teenagers joined in, singing and clapping along to the folk songs, much to the delight of the adults present. The more extroverted youths even took to dancing with exuberance, showcasing their enthusiasm for their cultural heritage.
During the celebrations, it was customary for the young visitors to affectionately refer to adults as “aunty pretty” and “uncle handsome,” a unique practice specific to the Nepalese community in Singapore. This endearing aspect of their interactions aimed to elicit additional contributions and was a tradition passed down from previous generations.
@julesthapaGC Bhailo Day 2 ???? Intro: Yearly Nepalese Festival where kids go around different houses in GC (Gurkha Contingent) and collect money for singing and dancing ???????? ????♬ original sound – Jules ????
In Nepal, it is customary for children to visit the homes of friends and relatives during this festival. However, in Singapore, the children have the opportunity to visit the blocks within their Gurkha community. The festival also featured girls and women dressed in exquisite attire, captivating the audience with their energetic dances performed in lift lobbies and other communal areas.
Apart from the vibrant activities, the Gurkha Cantonment was adorned with flower garlands and multi-colored lights, creating a festive ambiance reminiscent of Singapore’s various cultural celebrations. The spirit of the festival extended to Bhai Tika, a significant event during Tihar, where siblings mark each other’s foreheads with a seven-colored ‘tika’ and exchange special garlands symbolizing long life.
@julesthapaLa hamro beautiful bhanji haru ko ni ayo hai ????????????
Jules, the TikTok video creator, shared that Bhai Tika and Deusi Bhailo are major events celebrated by the Nepali community during the Tihar festival. Additionally, Dashain, celebrated in October, is considered the biggest Nepali festival, during which elders bless younger individuals with colored ‘tika’ on their foreheads and provide them with cash blessings.
The Gurkha children’s celebration of the Nepali festival in Singapore offers a captivating glimpse into the lesser-known multicultural festivities that thrive within the country. It showcases the rich cultural tapestry and the unity that comes from celebrating diverse traditions.
