Diwali Gifts

What is Diwali?

Diwali is the 5-day Festival of Lights which, this year, runs from 2nd November-6th November. While celebrated by more than one faith, Diwali is a predominantly Hindu celebration and represents the symbolic victory of light over darkness, good over evil. Diwali is a bright and colourful celebration during which families decorate their homes in preparation to celebrate new beginnings and freedom from spiritual darkness.

How to celebrate Diwali from home

Times have changed recently and we’re faced with adapting to brand new situations, especially for traditional celebrations. Diwali usually gives way to lots of public celebrations, light festivals (including things like lamps and lanterns) and firework displays. While this may look different this year, it can still be celebrated at home! Here’s how…

Decorate your home

Clean

Because Diwali marks new beginnings, it’s traditional to clean the home either on or before the first day of Diwali as it signifies a new start. Tidy clutter, organise laundry and make your home feel fresh and ready for the positive energy of Diwali.

Draw Footprints

The first day of Diwali is a day to celebrate Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Scattering footprints throughout the home is a traditional way of awaiting her arrival. There are lots of ways you can do this! One way is to cut footprints out of paper and place them around the house, or you can sprinkle a mixture of rice flour and vermillion powder straight onto the floor.

Decorate with Rangoli

On the second day of Diwali people decorate their homes with vibrant rangoli designs. Rangoli is a traditional art that is typically done in sand or rice and it often depicts flowers such as lotuses and daisies. You can sketch your designs on parchment paper and dye them using food colouring. Rangoli designs are typically placed at the entry of your home but you can place them anywhere!

Light Diyas and candles around your home

Diyas are small oil lamps that are shaped like cups. They are typically used to line the doorways in order to welcome the goddess Lakshmi into the home. Diwali is the Festival of Light so you can always dot extra candles around your home…the more the better!

String Lights

Diyas and candles not enough? Why not hang string lights throughout your home, lining the walls and surfaces! Don’t forget the outside of your house too!