R. Jayaselvam, owner of Anushia Flower Shop, making flower garlands using Button Roses at his shop in Little India. - ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO
“For the Indian community, the garland is deeply symbolic as it becomes part of the ashes and accompanies the deceased on their final journey.” Themed My Last Journey, the festival from Nov 1 to 17 will feature events, tours and behind-the-scenes experiences that offer an insight into end-of-life traditions and practices.
Tan started offering band services in 2015, and leads a team of about 30 to play mourning music at funerals. Most are for elderly Taoists and Buddhists, although he has also started seeing Hindu clients in recent years.“Maybe it will be in good demand for another five years. Though we have an ageing society, some Singaporeans prefer simpler funerals without a band.”
Dapur Kubur Singapore director Terry Ong, 46, painting the letters that were engraved on the granite tombstones at his workshop in Boon Lay on Oct 2, 2024. - ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO “When the death rate rises, we need enough people to service the dead and their families,” he said. “It’s a 24/7 calling as death can occur any time.”“When I first started, some people crushed my name card when they saw that I am a funeral director,” he recalled. “Now, people are curious and ask us questions about our profession instead.”