The Story Behind ‘Dhoby Ghaut’

Places in Singapore are usually named after significant persons and traditions that existed in the past.

Likewise, Dhoby Ghaut was named after the Indian tradition of washing clothes by the river. In Hindi, ‘Dhoby’ referred to washermen while ‘Ghaut’ referred to the steps along a river. Before Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station was built in 1987, people used to wash their clothes in the Stamford Canal.

In the past, Dhobi shops were commonly found in Singapore. However, such shops started to close down , with only one shop, “P. Suppiah Laundry”, remaining in Singapore.

“ 50 years ago, I opened my first shop at Norris Road. After moving a few places, I finally settled down here,” said Mr. Suppiah. Now, Mr Suppiah’s son , Mr Valakan has taken over the business because his father was getting older and had chest pains.

Demand for traditional laundry among the Indian community was still high .Because of the guaranteed quality of laundry, especially for Sarees and the affordable prices for such quality services .

“We charge $1.50 to iron and $2.50 to wash , dry and iron clothes.” said Mr. Valakan.

As the only dhobi shop left in Singapore, he wished that his business can last as long as possible.

By: Siti Nurulain Juli