Diwali, celebrated in South Africa on the 24th October 2022 is more commonly known as ‘the festival of lights’. It is seen as a time to celebrate good over evil and light over darkness with many locals observing the holiday over this period. This joyous festival is a major celebration for Hindus displayed through acts of charity, dedicated prayer, exuberant feasts, colourful fireworks and large family gatherings.
In preparing for the holiday, there are many ways to spruce up your home and welcome the festival with open arms into your space. We have listed four easy ways to bring Diwali into your home, from adding small decor items to soft scents and bright colours. Diwali is a time for celebrating, and your home should reflect exactly that, so do not be afraid to splash all the colour on your wall and brighten your home in every way possible.
Let there be light - and plenty of it
Whether you make use of ornate candles, lit diyas which are more commonly known as lamps, fairy lights or any other beautiful lighting, Diwali is celebrated through the power of lights and there is no such thing as too many. Lamps and candles add a softness to the home with the light they exude, and certainly add the festive element of Diwali in your space. The lamps are usually placed on the floors throughout the home with decorated colourful rice or sand placed in artistic designs. Just be wary of placing these too close to curtains or other fabrics that can catch alight.
Don’t be afraid of colour - mix and match
Diwali is all about an explosion of colour, from the clothes we wear to the food we eat, and not forgetting the colour splashed across our homes. Consider swopping out your standard cushions for ones with brighter shades and textures that can easily be thrown onto the couch. Rugs with great detailing and patterns also add the necessary punch of colour needed to amp up your space. Choosing to add colour in through smaller decor items and soft furnishings is the easiest way to swop out your normal home decor with festive, holiday decor that can be easily stored away and brought out only when required.
Fresh flowers are always on trend
Marigolds seem to be the flower of choice when celebrating this festive holiday. Floral garlands are usually made and placed at the front doors of homes, along with scattered flower petals to add along the entrance way. While marigolds are not always readily available in every part of South Africa, roses are a great alternative, or any brightly coloured bloom for that matter. Add bouquets of florals in every room to bring in a fresh floral scent along with their natural beauty.
Add a bit of sparkle & metallic accents
It goes without saying, but sparkling decor and metallic accents not only catch the corner of your eye, but also add more festive feels to your home. If you are not big on colour, gold, bronze, silver and rose gold are the ideal metallic shades to add over Diwali (or anytime of year to be quite honest). Glittering accents sparkle through the flicker of your lamps, and this added layer of excess is just another way we love to decorate our homes.
