21 Trendy and Traditional Diwali Decorations for 2025
Diwali decorations are essential to making your home feel complete during the festive season. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a Hindu celebration that symbolizes new beginnings, the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It’s a joyful time spent with loved ones exchanging Diwali gifts, enjoying delicious Diwali food and the ambiance created through thoughtful festive decor.
Festive lights, beautiful rangolis and diyas are all key elements of Diwali decor, and if you plan ahead and order everything in advance, you’ll have a much more enjoyable time celebrating Diwali with family.
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- Traditional Diwali Decorations
- Diwali Light Decorations
- DIY Diwali Decorations
- Diwali Decorations FAQs
Traditional Diwali Decorations
1.Puja Thali Decoration
A puja thali is a decorated tray that holds all the essentials for Diwali rituals. Consider it a spiritual centerpiece that brings the essence of the festival to life. A traditional puja thali typically includes turmeric or vermilion paste for drawing holy symbols like "Om," unbroken rice grains (akshata), diyas and incense sticks. You can find beautifully crafted puja thali sets on Amazon, complete with everything you need to perform the puja.
2. Urli Bowl
Adding an urli bowl near your entrance is a wonderful way to enhance your Diwali decorations and set the tone for the celebrations. You can fill it with water, fresh flowers and floating diyas to bring good fortune and prosperity for the coming year. The term "uruli" comes from the Tamil word "urulai," meaning "round bowl" and it has traditionally been used in South India, where it originated as a round-shaped cooking vessel. Over time, urli bowls transitioned from kitchenware to decorative items and now hold special significance during festivals like Diwali.
3. Marigolds
Marigolds are one of the most used Diwali decorations and can help to enhance the sense of warmth and devotion permeating your home during this time. There are many ways to incorporate marigolds into your Diwali decorations, such as draping marigold garlands at the entrance, in the puja room to honor the goddess of wealth Lakshmi or as a festive photo backdrop. You can also hang the garlands from ceilings, use them to decorate walls and doors or get creative by arranging them in a rangoli-style pattern on the floor.
4. Colourful Rugs
Adding luxurious and colorful rugs to your home is a wonderful way to welcome the festive spirit of Diwali. Opt for traditional designs with bold colors and intricate patterns as part of your Diwali decorations. Or, you could do a personalized Diwali mat with patterns that symbolize wealth, luck and positive energy. Beyond their spiritual significance, Diwali rugs are practical and durable — they can stand up to heavy foot traffic and protect your floors from inevitable scratches and wear.
5. Chowki Decor
One of the traditional Diwali decorations ideas is to use a beautifully crafted chowki (small square wooden table) to hold puja thalis, sweets or religious idols. You can further enhance the beauty of your chowki by adorning it with divine elements like incense sticks, fresh flowers and diyas. Consider getting a chowki made from thick plywood to create a durable and earthy look.
6. Water Fountains
A thoughtfully positioned water fountain will not only purify the energy in your space but also give your Diwali decorations at home a touch of serenity. According to Vastu principles, placing a small water fountain in the North zone of your living room is especially auspicious during Diwali. This direction is associated with the water element and is believed to attract wealth and enhance mental clarity. You can place your Diwali decorations fountain in the living room, temple or another cozy corner to create a calming and peaceful ambiance.
7. Bandhanwar
A Bandhanwar, also known as a toran, is a door hanging made from multicolored threads, beads, mirrors and sometimes little bells. It’s a popular element of traditional Diwali decorations that symbolizes success, comfort and a warm welcome to your guests. The word "Bandhanwar" comes from the Hindi words "Bandhan," meaning to tie and "Waar," meaning a garland or string. For a stylish Diwali setup, you can use two matching Bandhanwars with beadwork and lotus motifs to decorate your temple. Place one on the inner wall and the other at the temple entrance to create a cohesive and festive ambiance.
8. Lovely Cutlery
As with any special occasion, you’ll want to bring out your expensive silverware for your Diwali decorations. Using fancy dining cutlery adds a touch of sophistication that really immerses your guests in the beauty and significance of the experience. Look for sets with intricate detailing and high-quality plating as they’ll make a lasting impression. It's also common to gift elegant cutlery sets during Diwali as a way to wish for abundance and prosperity for the recipient's household.
9. Diwali Wreath
Bright floral wreaths are a popular choice for Diwali decor and this vibrant wreath by SMCraftsUS features an auspicious Shubh Kalash handcrafted with plastic peacock feathers, golden leaves and silk flowers. Plus, you can even personalize it with messages like "Shubh Labh" or "Happy Diwali" for an on-theme look.
Diwali Light Decorations
10. String Lights
Incorporating Diwali decorations lights into your outdoor spaces is a great way to extend the festive spirit beyond your interiors. One simple way to enhance your outdoor decor is by installing string lights along your door and surrounding areas. These lights can cover the entire wall length, illuminating your home beautifully for everyone to admire. String lights with elegant shapes like these leaf-shaped ones from Wiwente can add a charming touch, plus they’re easy to set up and remove once the festivities conclude.
11. Diya
Diya refers to the traditional earthen lamp used across the Indian subcontinent and these days, you can easily find decorative diyas on platforms like Amazon. Diya lamps are essential Diwali decorations representing purity, goodness and new beginnings for the New Year, while the act of lighting them symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and negativity. For those with little ones or a preference for safer alternatives, LED-powered lights inspired by diya lamps are an excellent option. Since they’re waterproof, these lamps are a practical option for outdoor celebrations and they can even stand up to slight drizzles. Large diya lamps add a beautiful, traditional touch when placed on both sides of a temple or the home’s entrance.
12. Dhoop Dani
Dhoop danis are staple Diwali decorations that not only add a graceful touch to your home but also fill the space with a delightful fragrance once the dhoop batti is lit. A traditional Indian incense holder, the dhoop dani typically features a metal or ceramic container with perforations or intricate designs that allow the incense smoke to naturally waft out. Beyond its practical use, the dhoop dani holds symbolic significance. It provides a safe, contained space for burning incense, preventing ashes from scattering and reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the fragrant smoke is believed to purify the environment, create a calming ambiance and enhance the spiritual aspect of Diwali.
13. Electric Lanterns
Did you know that the name "Diwali" means row of lights to symbolize the inner light that dispels spiritual darkness? So it’s only fitting to illuminate your home with lamps while celebrating this auspicious occasion. While electric lanterns may not be the most traditional option, they do provide a practical and versatile alternative. These lamps can be used for extended periods of time and still create the same warm and inviting ambiance as traditional oil or candle lamps.
14. Scented Candles
As you’re setting up your Diwali decorations lights, don’t forget to include scented candles that fill your space with enchanting fragrances. The act of lighting Diwali-themed candles like the ones from VyomDesign Studio is believed to dispel negative energy and create a protective shield around the home to protect it from evil spirits. What’s more, candles have been known to create a calming and soothing atmosphere that relieves stress and boosts mood, so including candles in your Diwali decorations will elevate the festive ambiance while promoting a peaceful environment.
DIY Diwali Decorations
15. Diwali Elephants
While Diwali is primarily associated with Lord Rama, Lord Ganesha is also worshipped during this time, and you can honor him by creating adorable Diwali elephant ornaments. Start by shaping a clay ball into a 6cm diameter circle, flattening it to 1cm thick. Then, use a pen or brush to define the legs and trunk by pressing gently into the clay. Shape small clay semi-circles for the ears and add a blanket design. Complete these Diwali decorations by covering it with flower gems and a wiggle eye, then create a loop for hanging with a thin ribbon. If you want to refine your artistic skills even further, consider exploring online art classes so you can learn new techniques.
16. Rangoli
Diwali Rangoli is the ancient Indian art form of designing intricate patterns using colorful sand, rice or flowers and is often passed down through generations, making it a meaningful practice for families looking to connect. MDF cutout rangoli sets are widely available online, with various designs to choose from on platforms like Amazon. These cutouts can be filled with rice that’s colored using natural additives like turmeric or food coloring, while smaller rangolis can be accentuated with nozzle bottles of rangoli colors.
Alternatively, you can make your own rangoli and choose a design that holds meaning to you, such as simple flowers, animals or intricate depictions of the goddess Lakshmi. Once you have a design in mind, decide whether you can create it freehand or whether you need a stencil for these Diwali decorations. If using a stencil, sketch the design on paper or cardstock, then cut it out to create a pattern you can trace.
17. Gota Pom Pom Dreamcatchers
In keeping with the theme of dispelling evil, dreamcatchers are a beautiful addition to your Diwali as they’re associated with the removal of negative energy. You can easily make your own dreamcatchers using a circular hoop made of wood or metal wrapped with yarn or fabric strips. Then, use thread or string to weave a web-like pattern inside the hoop, securing it with knots as you go. From here you can embellish your dreamcatcher with gota (a type of Indian trim) and pom poms, and incorporate traditional Diwali colors like gold, red and green.
Hang your gota pom pom dreamcatchers in your home, among your other Diwali decorations, to bring positive energy and good dreams during the festival of lights, while adding a touch of whimsy to your space.
18. Paper Lantern
A homemade paper lantern is a beautiful addition to your Diwali decorations at home as lanterns symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and Krishna's victory over Narakasura, and art classes near you can teach you how to create your own beautiful Diwali paper lantern.
To make it, pick a patterned sheet of paper heavier than regular paper but lighter than cardstock, along with matching construction paper. Cut a strip from the patterned paper for the handle. Fold the sheet in half, make evenly spaced cuts from the folded edge to an inch from the top, then unfold and glue the edges to form the lantern. Next, attach the handle and for extra flair, nest a smaller lantern inside for a layered effect. If you want to improve your crafting skills, art classes near you can teach you techniques like creating this beautiful Diwali paper lantern.
19. Shubh Labh
'Shubh Labh' is a phrase that’s commonly used during Diwali and it essentially means auspiciousness (Shubh; शुभ) and profit (Labh; लाभ). To create festive Shubh Labh Diwali decorations, cut two rectangular cardboard pieces, decorate them in red, gold or orange and write "Shubh" on one and "Labh" on the other. You can decorate them with glitter, sequins or traditional motifs and connect them with a decorative ribbon. It’s best to hang Shubh Labh at your home’s entrance to invite prosperity and good fortune for Diwali and beyond.
20. Lotus Wall Art
Making paper lotus wall art to brighten narrow or awkward wall spaces can really enhance your home’s atmosphere this Diwali. You can use colorful craft paper in shades like pink, white or lavender and cut circular layers of petals in decreasing sizes. Then, curve the petals for a 3D effect and craft the center with yellow or golden paper. Layer and glue the petals outward to inward for added depth before mounting your lotus on a contrasting background so it can really pop.
21. Henna-Decorated Candles
Give your plain candles a makeover befitting the Festival of Lights. Choose a large candle with a diameter of at least 5 cm and use a henna cone to draw intricate patterns on the candle. Once it’s dry, seal the design by brushing on a mix of PVC glue and water, then apply a second coat to make sure the henna stays in place. Pretty soon, you’ll have a glowing, handcrafted decoration perfect for the occasion.
Diwali Decorations FAQs
What are the traditional decorations for Diwali?
Traditional Diwali decorations include rangoli, paper lanterns, flower garlands, diyas, torans, candle displays and marigolds to name but a few.
What is the meaning of Diwali decorations?
Diwali decorations like diyas and rangoli hold deep cultural and spiritual meaning in Indian households. These elements symbolize the welcoming of positivity and the dispelling of negativity, all while creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere filled with tradition and joy.
What are 3 Diwali traditions?
Three of the main Diwali traditions include Naraka Chaturdasi, where vibrant rangoli is created, Lakshmi Puja — a cherished ritual to honor the goddess of prosperity, and Bhai Dooj which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, with sisters praying for their brothers' well-being and sharing festive meals.
Diwali decorations ideas are not just about creating a visually stunning ambiance, but they hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. From traditional diyas and rangoli to modern, personalized elements like Shubh Labh and paper lanterns, every piece adds to the festive spirit. Enhancing your Diwali celebrations extends beyond the indoors, however, and prioritizing outdoor decorations can really elevate the whole experience.
For even more fun Diwali ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
