Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for celebration, joy, and family gatherings. As we illuminate our homes with diyas, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact of our festivities. Making eco-friendly diyas at home is a great way to celebrate Diwali while adding a personal touch to your decorations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create beautiful eco-friendly diyas using simple materials.

Materials needed:

Natural clay or soil (you can buy natural clay from a craft store or use soil from your garden)
Cotton wicks
Natural oils like mustard oil, coconut oil, or sesame oil for burning.
Natural dyes (turmeric, beetroot, or vegetable peels to colour your diyas)
Decorative items (flowers, leaves, or eco-friendly paint for decoration)
Water

Follow these instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the clay

If you are using natural clay, knead it well to make it soft. If you prefer using soil, mix it with a little water to create a dough-like consistency. Make sure the mixture is neither too dry nor too wet.

Step 2: Shape the diyas

Take a small portion of the clay or soil and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly and shape it into a small cup with a little bowl-like structure. This will hold the oil and wick. Use your fingers to pinch the edges of the diya to create a beautiful design, making sure it is stable and will not tip over.

Step 3: Create the wick

Cut a piece of cotton fabric into thin strips about 1-2 inches long. Roll it into a tight wick, ensuring that one end is slightly thicker to absorb the oil better.
If you don’t have cotton fabric, you can also use cotton balls twisted together.

Step 4: Colour the diyas 

If you wish to colour your diyas, you can mix natural dyes into the clay before shaping them. Alternatively, you can paint them with eco-friendly paints after they have dried. Natural dyes from kitchen items like turmeric or beetroot can create beautiful hues.

Step 5: Dry the diyas

Allow the diyas to dry in the sun for a few hours. This will harden them and make them more durable for use.

Step 6: Fill with oil and insert wicks

Once the diyas are dry, fill each diya with your chosen natural oil, leaving some space at the top. Place the cotton wick in the oil, ensuring one end is submerged while the other sticks out to light.

Step 7: Decorate 

Use flowers, leaves, or eco-friendly paints to decorate your diyas. You can make designs, patterns, or simply adorn them with petals for a festive touch.
On Diwali night, light your eco-friendly diyas and place them around your home. Enjoy the warm glow of your handmade creations and feel proud of your sustainable efforts!

Benefits of making eco-friendly diyas

Sustainability: By using natural materials, you contribute to reducing plastic waste and environmental harm.
Creativity: Making diyas allows you to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your Diwali decorations.
Cultural significance: DIY diyas are a great way to connect with traditional practices and promote eco-consciousness among family and friends.
Cost-effective: Creating your own diyas is often cheaper than buying them, making it a budget-friendly option for festive celebrations.