About
Our Journey
From a first property in Enggor Street to the Singapore Sindhi Association of today — the story of how our community found its home.
Chapter One
The First Addresses
The Association’s own account of its early years begins with an address — and a community building a home around it.
The journey of the Singapore Sindhi Association (SSA) began with the acquisition of its first property at 30 Enggor Street, which was later sold on 29 May 1951 for $55,000. The proceeds were used to purchase new premises at 176 Neil Road for $45,000.
The Neil Road property served as a vital hub for the community. It provided accommodation for Sindhi travellers in transit and operated a “Veesi” (contract meal) service, run by Mr. Hashumal.
Service from the Start
Demonstrating its strong community spirit, the Association donated $400 to aid wartime evacuees from Japan passing through Singapore. In 1948, Sindhi women also contributed by raising funds for the Ramakrishna Mission Building Fund, highlighting the community’s commitment to social service.
Chapter Two
Two Sindhi Organisations
At the time, two distinct Sindhi organisations existed: the Sindhi Merchants Association (SMA) and the Sindhi Club (SC).
Sindhi Merchants Association (SMA)
The Sindhi Merchants Association supported the Sindhi Club through a $300 monthly grant, and later agreed to fund the purchase of the Mountbatten Road property from its own accumulated reserves.
Sindhi Club (SC)
The Sindhi Club operated as a recreational centre at 795 Mountbatten Road, a property rented for $550 per month.
Eventually, Mr. Jawaharmal Idanmal secured the option to purchase the Mountbatten Road property for $80,000.
The President of SMA at that time was Mr. Hassaram Balani of KAJ Chotirmall & Co.
Chapter Three
Becoming the SSA
In the new century the Association took its present name — and opened new chapters in its leadership.
A New Name
In 2003, under the presidency of Mr. Manu Bhojwani, the Association was formally renamed Singapore Sindhi Association (SSA).
A First for Women in Leadership
That year also marked a milestone in SSA’s leadership when Mrs. Divya J. Advani was appointed as the first woman to serve on the Management Committee, taking on the role of Vice President.
The World Comes to Singapore
A proud moment in SSA’s history came in July 2007, when the Association hosted the 14th International Sindhi Sammelan, attracting Sindhis from across the globe.
The First Lady President
In 2008, SSA again made history as Mrs. Divya J. Advani became the first female President of the Association.
Trustees of Sindhu House
The first trustees of Sindhu House were Mr. D.T. Assomull and Mr. K. Kishinchand. Today, the current trustees are Mr. Sajan Bhojwani, Mr. Nand Ramchandani, and Mr. Sunder Samnani.
The Road Ahead
The Journey Continues
From Enggor Street to Neil Road to Mountbatten Road, every chapter of this story was written by members who gave their time and means to the community. Singapore Sindhi Association welcomes you to be part of the next one.
Continue the story: Our Presidents · Life at Sindhu House