India’s Cultural Imprint on Singapore: Name Derived from Sanskrit, Early Administration from Calcutta

New Delhi: Singapore’s former Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean has highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between India and Singapore. Speaking at the 5th Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture, he stated that the name “Singapore” or “Singapura” originates from Sanskrit, reflecting India’s early cultural influence in Southeast Asia. Remarkably, until 1867, Singapore’s administration was managed from Calcutta.

Historical Ties that Shape Modern Relations

Currently serving as the Chairman of Temasek Holdings and senior advisor to Singapore’s Prime Minister, Teo Chee Hean emphasized that the historical connections continue to guide contemporary India-Singapore relations. He noted that during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s previous visit to Singapore, the bilateral relationship was elevated to a strategic partnership, building on centuries of people-to-people, cultural, and trade exchanges.

Teo also acknowledged the critical role of the Indian community in shaping modern Singapore’s social fabric, economy, and culture. He remarked, “Indian migrants have been a vital part of Singapore’s diversity and development.”

Endorsing ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’

Teo praised India’s global philosophy, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ which underpins the message ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’, calling it highly relevant in today’s divided world. He further lauded the Indian government’s economic reforms, which have boosted confidence among global investors, including Temasek.

He highlighted key reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which created a simplified and unified national market, and the consolidation of labor laws into four major codes, a move he described as remarkable and previously considered improbable.

Strengthening Economic Partnerships

Earlier, Teo met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss emerging investment opportunities in India. He also held discussions with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, revealing that Temasek’s total investment in India has reached $50 billion, with plans for further expansion in the coming years.