Diyas (oil lamps) are the quintessential symbol of Diwali. Made from clay, these small lamps filled with oil and a cotton wick are lit in homes to dispel darkness and invite prosperity.

• Where to Place Diyas: Line them along windowsills, balconies, doorways, and on your rangoli designs. You can also create a centerpiece by grouping several diyas on a decorative tray.
• Creative Variations: Consider using scented candles or floating diyas in bowls of water with flower petals. You can also paint and decorate diyas to add a personal touch.

Candles are another popular choice for Diwali. Available in various sizes, colors, and fragrances, they can complement your diya arrangements.

• Where to Place Candles: Arrange them on side tables, dining tables, or in the corners of your rooms to create a warm ambiance.

• Classic Rangoli: Use bright colors to create traditional patterns such as flowers, peacocks, and geometric shapes at the entrance of your home. This not only adds beauty but also symbolizes welcoming guests and deities.
• Floral Rangoli: For a more natural look, create rangoli designs using flower petals like marigolds, roses, and chrysanthemums. This adds a vibrant and fragrant touch to your home.
• Stenciled Rangoli: If freehand rangoli is challenging, use stencils to create precise and symmetrical designs. You can also incorporate mirrors, beads, or diyas within your rangoli for added elegance.

Torans or door hangings are decorative items made of flowers, beads, and fabric that are hung at the entrance of homes to invite positive energy.

• Floral Torans: Traditionally made from marigold flowers and mango leaves, floral torans are simple yet beautiful. You can buy ready-made ones or make your own using fresh or artificial flowers.
• Beaded Torans: These are made from colorful beads, pearls, and mirrors, and they add a sparkling touch to your entrance. They are long-lasting and can be reused for multiple occasions.
• Fabric Torans: Fabric torans, often adorned with embroidery and sequins, offer a rich and luxurious look. Choose colors that match your overall decor theme.

String lights, also known as fairy lights, are an easy and effective way to add sparkle to your Diwali decorations.

• Indoor Use: Drape them over windows, doors, or along the edges of your ceiling. You can also wrap them around stair railings or create a light curtain behind sheer drapes for a dreamy effect.
• Outdoor Use: Outline the exterior of your home, balcony, or garden with string lights. You can also wrap them around trees, shrubs, or along pathways to create a magical atmosphere.
• DIY Light Jars: Place string lights inside glass jars or bottles to create DIY lanterns. These can be used as table centerpieces or placed on windowsills.

Flowers play a significant role in Diwali decorations, symbolizing purity, beauty, and prosperity.

• Garlands: Use marigold or jasmine garlands to decorate doorways, windows, and temples. You can also drape them over mirrors, picture frames, and stair railings.
• Floral Arrangements: Create fresh flower arrangements in vases and place them on tables, mantels, and countertops. Mixing flowers with candles or diyas can add an elegant touch.
• Floral Chandeliers: For a unique and grand decor piece, create a floral chandelier using hoops, flowers, and string. Hang it above the dining table or in the living room for a striking effect.

Paper lanterns and lampshades add a touch of elegance and can be customized to match your Diwali theme.

• DIY Lanterns: Create your own paper lanterns using colorful craft paper, scissors, and glue. You can hang these in your living room, balcony, or garden for a festive look.
• Lampshades: Replace regular lampshades with ones that have intricate patterns or traditional Indian designs. When the light shines through, it will cast beautiful shadows around the room.

Enhance your walls with Diwali-themed decorations to create a focal point in your home.

• Tapestries and Wall Hangings: Choose tapestries with traditional Indian motifs, such as elephants, peacocks, or mandalas. Hang them in the living room or hallway to add a cultural touch.
• Diwali Art: Frame and hang artwork that represents Diwali themes, such as goddess Lakshmi, diyas, or scenes from Ramayana. You can also create a gallery wall with smaller framed pieces.
• Wall Decals: Use removable wall decals featuring Diwali symbols like diyas, fireworks, or rangoli patterns. These are easy to apply and remove, making them perfect for temporary decor.

Your dining table is the center of many Diwali gatherings, so it’s essential to decorate it in a way that complements the festival’s spirit.

• Table Runners: Use a table runner with rich, festive colors such as gold, red, or purple. Embroidered or beaded runners can add a touch of luxury.
• Centerpieces: Create a centerpiece using a combination of candles, diyas, flowers, and fruits. A decorative bowl filled with water, floating candles, and flower petals is another beautiful option.
• Festive Dinnerware: Use dinnerware with traditional patterns or colors that match your Diwali theme. Gold-rimmed plates and glasses can add a touch of elegance to your table setting.

An Urli is a traditional brass vessel that is often filled with water and decorated with flowers, candles, or floating diyas. It is usually placed at the entrance or in the living room.

• Floating Flowers and Candles: Fill the Urli with water, add flower petals, and place floating candles or diyas on top. This not only looks beautiful but also adds a calming and serene atmosphere.
• Fruit and Flower Arrangement: For a more unique look, fill the Urli with seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and grapes, along with flower petals. This adds color and freshness to your decor.