Wedding bells are ringing this month in Little India, not to celebrate a matrimony, but Indian culture.

For about two weeks starting today, the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association is highlighting the traditions of 16 Indian ethnic groups at the Indian Cultural Fiesta, which is in its eighth year.

The event is based on the theme of weddings this year.

Mr Ruthirapathy, honorary secretary of the association, says: "In India, there are many aspects to different Indian weddings that we can learn about. This event will allow us to show our unity in our diversity."

The groups featured at the fiesta include Young Sikh Association, Singapore Gujarati Society and Marwari Mitra Mandal, which is being highlighted for the first time at the event.

This year marks the first time exhibitions from the fiesta will be housed in the Indian Heritage Centre.

Displays of the various significant traditions of marriage will be located at the centre from today to April 23. These include traditional wedding wear and customary nuptial items and decorations.

The rest of the event will be held at Campbell Lane from tonight until April 23. It will launch with a concert featuring dance and music performances by local celebrities and arts and ethnic groups.

Held in conjunction with the fiesta is the Little India Heritage Trail from tomorrow to April 15 (closed on April 10). The guided tour, held at 11am, 2 and 5pm on those dates, will present the history and social memories of Little India, with stops at Tekka Centre, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and Indian Heritage Centre, among others.

The association's women's wing will be presenting Tamizhil Natpum Kaathalum for the fourth year. The segment of "live music, live singing and storytelling to celebrate love and friendship" is to be held on the last day of festivities to celebrate and encourage appreciation of the Tamil language.

"Tamil is a romantic language," says Ms Joyce Kingsly, founder and chairman of the women's wing.