Diwali Decorating Ideas – Traditional, Modern and Fusion

Diwali does not feel truly like Diwali until the marigold garlands come in! Using fresh flowers, collectibles and everyday household items, I deck up my home for Diwali in a number of ways. Here are some of my Diwali decorating ideas for this year. 

Table Decor and Centerpieces

Diwali time sees a lot of guests in the house and the center table needs to look its best. The floating flowers and candles centerpiece lasts for quite a few days and can be moved around to a different area for a different look the next day.

It also looks great near the entryway or on a side table in the foyer, especially when lit up.

Gerberas are a favorite of mine. With their different colors, they can be used to decorate for almost any time of the year. Here I have used red and orange gerberas to brighten up a side table.

I am totally floored by Moroccan lanterns. They go beautifully with traditional Indian decor. A lovely grouping of Moroccan lanterns in different sizes, colored bottles and a Lotus shaped ‘diya’, I have here a stunning centerpiece.

Getting Innovative with Earthen Lamps

Even a single ‘diya’ or earthen lamp can take on a new personality when displayed on a height. I am using several of my cake stands here to display my diyas. Adding a ruby red decanter and a rust colored bottle for color.

My mantel is mainly a grouping of different cake stands holding diyas, Moroccan lanterns and footed bowls holding flowers. Even pillar candle holders are holding diyas for Diwali.

The metallic Moroccan lamps go beautifully with the gold edges diyas and their brightly colored glass is perfect for Diwali decorations.

Dinner Table Decor

The dinner table, which is the most important place throughout the year, comes second during Diwali. Most of the time, the kids are munching on Diwali sweets and snacks and proper meals are not a very big affair. But if you are entertaining during the festive season, this becomes the most important place in the house. Regardless of whether or not I am going to have guests for dinner, I like to deck the dining table with a centerpiece. Combining the traditional marigolds and ‘desi’ roses with champagne flutes and tealights, I have created a fusion look here.

Decorative Touches in Other Rooms

While most of our Diwali decorating ideas are centered on the entryway and the main room where we receive guests, I think it is important to add little touches to other rooms as well.

Even if it is as simple as placing a bowl of flowers on the table, a little effort brightens up every room. It’s Diwali after all, and every place in the home should feel festive!