DIY hacks: Diwali, the festival of lights, is all about lighting diyas, the small earthen lamps that symbolize the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The diyas play an important role during the festival in lighting up the houses and creating a festive atmosphere. But when Diwali is over, the beautiful lamps are often thrown away. It is little known that these Diwali diyas can be reused in everyday life in creative ways as home decorations. These diya reuse ideas are not only sustainable through waste management but also keep the Diwali memories alive in our daily lives. However, with DIY hacks, you can incorporate the used Diwali diyas into your everyday life.
Reuse Diwali diyas can be reused in a variety of creative ways. From repurposing them as small planters for miniature succulents or herbs to decorating and coloring them as jewelry holders, there are several easy, creative ways to give lamps new life. Here are the right DIY hacks to reintroduce Diwali diyas into everyday life and preserve the beauty and warmth of Diwali.
Creative Ways to Reuse Diwali Diyas for Home Decoration
Turn diyas into planters
Fill the diyas with soil and plant small succulents or herbs like mint or basil. Place them on window sills or kitchen countertops to add a touch of green. Use broken diyas as drainage trays for potted plants.
READ ALSO: Why are earthen diyas lit during Diwali? Know the spiritual meaning of this tradition
Paint and use as decorative bowls
Clean the diyas and repaint them with acrylic or enamel paints. You can use them to store kumkum, haldi or small jewelry items. Add mirror work or beads for a festive look.
Make scented candle holders
Melt leftover wax or use store-bought wax to refill diyas. Add essential oils like lavender or sandalwood for scent. Insert a wick and allow it to harden, which can give the impression of a homemade candle.
Diwali Diyas reused as bird feeders (Image credit: Gemini AI)
Create eco-friendly birdhouses
Fill diyas with grains or water and place them on balconies or gardens. They attract small birds and promote biodiversity.
Use as craft storage
Store beads, buttons, pins or spices in diyas for easy access. You can arrange them in drawers or on shelves as a rustic organizer.
Incorporate it into meditation corners
Place diyas around the puja temples or meditation room. Fill with water and flower petals for a calming visual effect.
Upcycling for gift packaging
You can reuse decorated diyas as part of festive gift baskets. Fill with candy, dried fruit or potpourri and wrap in transparent paper.
READ ALSO: Ayodhya Deepotsav 2025: City shines with 28 lakh diyas as city aims for world record
Make a wall hanging or garland
String several diyas together using jute or colorful thread. Hang them as a festive garland or wall decoration.
Recycling these Diwali diyas is a great way to stay true to tradition while being eco-friendly. By upcycling Diwali diyas, you not only showcase waste but also add value to your home decor and lifestyle.