Five-day shopping extravaganza

SINGAPORE - The Festival of Lights may be two months away but we all know that the preparations should start early. And to help, tabla! and Tamil Murasu - the two publications for the Indian community here in Singapore - have teamed up with events company de ideaz to organise the Singapore International Deepavali Shopping Festival (SIDS Fest).

This is the second time such an event has been organised. Last year, the three organisations' three-day event, Deepavali Mela 2012, was a roaring success.

This year, the SIDS Fest at the Singapore Expo Hall 5B will last five days, from Sept 18 to 22, from 10am to 10pm.

There will be over 350 stalls displaying a variety of products including clothes, accessories, handicrafts, jewellery and much more from India and South-east Asia.

This event will showcase the rich culture and talent of these countries. Whether you are looking to participate for business or to look glamorous this festive season, SIDS Fest is an opportunity that should not be missed.

Plus there will be many attractive bargains ensuring an exciting shopping experience, not just for consumers but also business buyers.

You can expect to see exotic lengha-styled saris to traditional Kanchivaram silk saris and fabrics with beautiful Chikankari embroidery that's famous in Lucknow and more at the festival.

Not to mention the art pieces that are unique to certain regions in India like the Madhubani art paintings of the Mithila region in Bihar and the adjoining parts of Terai in Nepal.

But what's a festival without entertainment and refreshments?

The SIDS Fest will have a sprawling section for food and beverages. There will also be various competitions and participants can vie for exciting prizes.

So mark your calendars and make sure you join us for the shopping fiesta.

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