Object size: Refer to parts
This image is part of a photographic series "Postcards from Singapore" by Zakaria Zainal examining narratives of identity and belonging through the perspectives of children of Nepalese Gurkhas, who were born and raised in Singapore. It consists of a poignant collection of portraits of these young adults, accompanied by handwritten letters from them dedicated to Singapore. The photographs were taken a week before they left Singapore for good, following their fathers’ completion of three decades of service in the Gurkha contingent. Their writings conveyed sentiments of sadness and nostalgia at having to leave their lives and memories in Singapore behind, tinged with uncertainty and hope for the future.Portrayed here is Radha Kumari Pan at a playground she hung out at most often. It was the most memorable sites for her as she played among other Singaporean children without being singled out for being different. It was where she felt like "a true Singaporean", a cherished identity she will carry with her no matter which part of the world her future takes her.Documenting the voices and recollections of an essential yet often overlooked community in Singapore's history, this series contemplates on the challenges encountered by this transient and temporal community in navigating the complex emotional and social landscapes that shape their sense of self. While the Gurkha Contingency and their families have resided in isolated encampments out of the public eye to maintain their neutrality, many of these young people have adapted to local norms to fit into Singapore's multicultural society, eventually developing a profound love and attachment for the nation's food, language and people.