Singapore seems to have no shortage of candy-colored buildings. I had blogged about the rainbow-like building of the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth previously. Today, I visited the Rochor Center, a set of government housing blocks each painted a different primary color. These buildings are a landmark of the Bugis neighborhood and hard to miss whenever you drive past them. Unlike the glitzy new buildings that seem to have taken over downtown Singapore, the colored buildings of Rochor Center are iconic of 1970s Singapore. Longtime residents of different ethnicities have lived here harmoniously for generations. Walk around the shophouses on the ground floor and the old uncles at work, and you can feel the character of the place and the stories behind it. 

Unfortunately, nothing last forever and later this year, the Rochor Center will be torn down to make way for new developments and an expressway. Before that happens, I made a visit to this place and soaked up the view of the city from its rooftop. While there are still some residents there, most seem to have moved out along with many of the stores. It's sad indeed as this iconic landmark will be missed once it's been removed from the ever-changing cityscape.

Top: ESP (Bangkok) | Pants: Zara | Purse: Rebecca Minkoff Round Sofia Crossbody Bag

Shoes: Mumbai street shopping | Sunglasses: RayBans (Nordstrom Rack) | Bracelet: Nakamol

Happy Holi everyone! Today is the Indian festival of Holi, which marks the beginning of the spring season and the proverbial triumph of good over evil. Holi is celebrated across India with friends and family enthusiastically playing with colored powder and water, earning it the name of “Festival of Colors”. The festivities involve food, dancing, and frolic, making Holi easily one of the most enjoyable of Indian festivals.

Of course Bollywood has depicted this festival across numerous movies and songs. The romanticized depiction of Holi on the silver screen spans several eras, even as actors and styles have changed. As I listen to these songs now to get into the spirit of Holi, I can't help but notice that there’s a song for every mood! Don’t believe me? Read on…

1. Traditional – Rang Barse:
When I think of Holi, I think of this song. Sung in Amitabh Bacchhan's baritone voice, this is probably one of the most iconic songs associated with this festival. The video does a great job of capturing the merriment and mischief of the day.

2. Sweet – Khelenge Hum Holi:
In this song, Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Bollywood, romances the widowed Asha Parekh who is scared to give her heart away. The song itself has a bittersweet balance of happiness and sadness. Meanwhile, the cheer of the crowd and lively dancing spreads the message of brotherhood and love.

3. Cheesy – Do Me a Favor Let’s Play Holi:
If you’re in a particularly corny mood, look no further than this song. The lyrics, the nasal voice of Anu Malik, and the silly expressions will definitely make you erupt in laughter. Hey, it’s okay to poke a little fun. That’s the point of Holi, right?

4. Sensual – Lahu Munh Lag Gaya:
Woah, when did Holi get so sexy? The chemistry, the dancing, the outfits – they all leave you breathless. People may have polarizing opinions about the movie itself, but this song sure keeps everyone's interest piqued.

5. Modern – Balam Pichkari:
The new generation knows how to celebrate Holi with gusto too! In one of the biggest hits of 2013, Deepika and Ranbir depict the excitement of Holi in the extremely catchy song that’s still on my playlist. While the cinematography of the song and antics between friends feel very modern, the song still conveys the feeling of friendship and celebration that is so iconic of Holi.