How to Decorate Beautifully for Diwali, According to Indian Designers
Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, is just around the corner — and I can’t wait to celebrate. Every autumn, like millions of other Indians around the globe, I clean and decorate my Los Angeles apartment for the holiday, during which we welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, into our homes.
It’s as important as ever to take time to celebrate and make space for joy these days. So to help find easy ways to decorate for Diwali this year, I turned to the experts: I spoke with two Indian interior designers to find out what they look for in Diwali decor, and where to shop without breaking the bank. Their advice? Focus on traditional, reusable, and repurposed elements. Here’s a comprehensive guide to decorating for the Festival of Lights.
Diyas And Marigold Garlands
Your Diwali decor should feature the traditional elements of light and color. The experts I talked to suggest choosing traditional clay diyas and pairing them with marigold garlands, both of which are typically inexpensive. Moreover, both can be stored and reused next year as well. I like these traditional clay diyas from Etsy and these faux marigold garlands from Walmart. They’re well-priced, can be repurposed, and look wonderful.
“Diwali is deeply tied to India’s heritage of light, color, and craftsmanship. The simplest way to honor this is through diyas — traditional clay lamps that cost very little yet carry centuries of symbolism. Pair them with marigold garlands, whether fresh or faux, to echo the vibrant streets of India during the festival,” says Meena Murthy Kakkar, design head and partner at Envisage Projects.
Indian Brass Urli Bowl With Floating Tea Light Candles
You also don’t need to buy expensive decorative pieces to create an eye-catching focal point. You could utilize beautiful bowls you may already own.
“A beautiful way to decorate for Diwali is by creating a centerpiece with a traditional urli bowl or even a shallow brass bowl you already have at home,” suggests Aashita Chadha, interior designer and cofounder of The KariGhars. “Simply fill it with water, add floating candles, and scatter fresh flower petals for a festive glow.”
“Affordable options like an Indian brass urli bowl paired with floating tea light candles can be used, but using a bowl you already own works just as beautifully, bringing elegance and tradition to your decor without overspending,” Aashita adds. This simple water and light element instantly enhances any coffee or console table. I like this traditional urli bowl from Etsy and floating candles from Walmart since they’re so affordable and aesthetically pleasing.
Stick-On Rangoli Sheets
Rangoli, a key Diwali tradition, is usually designed using powdered colors and can be messy and time-consuming. Instead, interior designers recommend a cleaner, reusable alternative.
“Rangoli, a heritage art form, can be created on a budget using flower petals, rice, chalk pastels, or reusable stick-on rangoli sheets — perfect for a no-mess, eco-friendly option,” adds designer Meena Murthy Kakkar. I ordered this Rangoli Sticker from Etsy and love how easy it is to use.
Reimagine Colorful Indian Textiles As Decor Elements
Lastly, adding in striking hues and warm textures is an easy way to decorate your home for Diwali. Experts advise incorporating Indian textiles you may already have or can find easily.
“Repurpose colorful textiles like dupattas (long Indian scarves) as table runners, echoing India’s textile legacy. By leaning on traditional elements — textiles, and heritage crafts — you capture the cultural richness of Diwali without overspending,” Murthy Kakkar concludes. I ordered these dupattas from Etsy, and I was impressed by their arresting hues, they instantly brightened my home.
This year, let your inventive Diwali decor shine bright. By incorporating these easy-to-follow tips, you can make your home stand out and be ready for the Indian festive season.