Ivan Polunin Archives

29/01/2026

09/08/2025

(8/8)

The energy during Thaipusam was electric, as can be seen from the young devotees carrying Kavadis during the processions.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(7/8)

Preparing for the afterlife is a big part of Chinese culture. You wouldn't want to end up in the courts of Hell as shown in Haw Par Villa.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(6/8)

As Singapore moved towards rapid development, it left behind some sights that have either disappeared or vastly transformed. Would you believe that there were hawkers in front of Raffles Hotel or that the hardworking Samsui women that came from China were a critical part of the construction industry at the time?

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(5/8)

There were no condominiums or HDBs back then. Living conditions were not as comfortable as they are today and it was not uncommon for multiple families to be sharing one room.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(4/8)

Just like today, weddings were a reason to celebrate! For Malay weddings, the whole kampung would get together to give their blessings and gifts to the bride and groom.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(3/8)

The sea was a much bigger part of life back then. Boats were not only an essential mode of transport for fishing, but they were also a means to get around from the neighbouring islands. More than that, they were a source of entertainment for the annual sea sports that were held in Singapore waters.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(2/8)

Singapore in the fifties was vastly different, with tongkangs floating in the Singapore River, pre-Independence spirit and hard work was the driving force that got us to where we are today.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the year, make sure to catch the other videos!

09/08/2025

(1/8)

This 60th National Day marks another milestone in Singapore History. Let’s take a step back and revel at how far we’ve come by taking a stroll through history, explained by yours truly, Dr. Ivan Polunin.

This is an 8-part video series showcasing Singapore’s heritage throughout the years, make sure to catch the other videos!

01/01/2025

Wishing everyone a very happy new year from the Ivan Polunin Archives! 🎉

This particular image captures a moment from the New Year Sea Sports or 'Main Januari' (the January Games) boat races held in Singapore. These races began as early as 1834 and continued until the 1950s, bringing together boating communities from around the region who raced with a variety of boats such as the koleh (small fishing boats, also seen in image), perahu payang (large Terrenganu style boats) and Bugis trading boats.

The starting line was situated a few hundred yards off Clifford Pier. If you look closely, you can see a glimpse of St Andrew's Cathedral and some of the sailors puffing away while at sea!

25/06/2024

25/06/2024

An HDB kitchen in the 1970s.