Navratri, the festival of nine nights dedicated to celebrating goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura and the victory of good over evil— is enjoyed with great fervor across India. Like all other pujas, this too is celebrated with its own grandeur marked by its intricate pandal and idol decor. In this article find five DIY ideas to inspire you to add a festive touch during this time to your home is through unique entrance decor.
See also: 12 Vastu tips for home to attract prosperity during Navratri
Floral rangoli with diyas
Navratri or durga puja is characterised by its vibrant and colourful celebration. This can be brought to your homes with bright rangoli designs adorned with fresh or artificial flowers and surrounded by illuminated diyas. Rangoli is a traditional Indian art form believed to welcome deities while flowers and diyas symbolize prosperity and positivity. Together, these give a warm welcome not only to your guests but the goddess as well.
How to DIY it?
Materials: Rangoli powder (multicolour), fresh or artificial flowers, diyas, and a rangoli stencil.
Instructions:
Create a basic rangoli design using the stencil or if you would like to unleash your artistic ability, freestyle a design of your own.
Fill in the design with rangoli powder.
Place diyas around the rangoli to illuminate high points of the design
Decorate with fresh or artificial flowers to give it a final touch of elegance.
Garland of bells
A cheerful and jingling garland of metal bells hanging from your front door can add a temple like sanctity to your home. Bells are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. The sound of the bells creates a festive atmosphere.
How to DIY it?
Materials: Metal bells of different sizes, a string or ribbon, and a hanger.
Instructions:
Thread the bells onto the string or ribbon.
Adjust the spacing between the bells to your liking.
Hang the garland on your front door to allow the winds to play a tune of festivities.
Paper lantern string lights
A whimsical and enchanting display of paper lanterns illuminated by string lights can be a budget friendly entrance decor that adds light to your home. Lanterns symbolize hope and light. The combination of lanterns and lights creates a warm and inviting ambiance.
How to DIY it?
Materials: Paper lanterns of different sizes, a string, and battery-operated string lights.
Instructions:
Attach the paper lanterns to the string at intervals.
Wrap the string lights around the lanterns.
Hang the string of lanterns and lights on your porch or balcony.
Potli bag garland
A colorful and textured garland of potli bags filled with small trinkets. Potli bags are traditional Indian pouches often used for carrying auspicious items. The garland symbolizes abundance and prosperity. These can also act as tiny gifts that your guests take back home during this season right from your door.
How to DIY it?
Materials: Potli bags of different colors and sizes, a string, and a hanger.
Instructions:
Fill the potli bags with small items like beads, coins, or dried flowers.
Tie the potli bags onto the string.
Adjust the spacing between the bags.
Hang the garland on your front door.
DIY Navratri doormat
A personalized doormat featuring Navratri-themed designs or motifs. The doormat is the first thing visitors see. A customized doormat adds a personal touch and welcomes guests with a festive spirit.
How to DIY it?
Materials: A plain doormat, fabric paint, and a stencil.
Instructions:
Choose a Navratri-themed design or create your own.
Apply the stencil to the doormat.
Paint the design using fabric paint.
Let the paint dry completely before using the doormat.
These ideas can be further customized based on your personal preferences and the overall theme of your Navratri decorations. With these DIY ideas that are easy to implement, add a touch of elegance and festivity to your home during Navratri. Incorporate elements like traditional motifs, colors associated with the nine nights of Navratri, or even family heirlooms to make your entrance decor truly unique and meaningful.
FAQs
What are some traditional Navratri entrance decor elements?
Traditional elements include rangoli, diyas, torans (door hangings), and floral arrangements. These elements are often decorated with motifs like lotus flowers, peacocks, and the Navdurga goddesses.
How can I create a festive Navratri entrance on a budget?
Use DIY techniques like making paper lanterns, stringing potli bags, or painting your own doormat. Incorporate natural elements like leaves, flowers, and branches for a cost-effective yet beautiful look.
What colors are commonly used in Navratri decor?
The colors associated with the nine nights of Navratri are white, red, royal blue, yellow, green, grey, orange, pink, and purple. You can use these colors in your entrance decor to create a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
How can I make my Navratri entrance decor more eco-friendly?
Opt for reusable or biodegradable materials like paper lanterns, natural flowers, and LED lights. Avoid single-use plastics and excessive waste.
Can I use modern elements in my Navratri entrance decor?
You can combine traditional elements with modern touches like geometric patterns, contemporary art, or minimalist designs. The key is to create a harmonious and visually appealing space.
How can I make my Navratri entrance decor stand out?
Experiment with unique materials like seashells, feathers, or recycled items. Incorporate personal touches like family heirlooms or photographs to make your entrance truly special.
What is the significance of diyas in Navratri decor?
Diyas are believed to symbolize light and knowledge, dispelling darkness and ignorance. They are also associated with the goddess Lakshmi, who is often depicted holding a lotus flower and a diya.
Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com
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