It’s Diwali time again guys! This past year just flew by and I am sure most of you (including me) felt that the world would become ‘normal’ while celebrating Diwali last year. Cut to Diwali 2021–– it’s definitely not the old normal and there is no escaping this new one. With cases rising we all need to be careful, but let that not hamper our festive spirit. Let us get together (with masks on) and celebrate the joy of giving, the ecstasy of meeting loved ones, and my favourite — the excitement of decorating our homes! Although I firmly believe that one’s home should be well decorated throughout the year, there is something special about this time of the year –– you want to give it a little extra care and who can think of Diwali decor without thinking of marigolds! It’s one of my favourite flowers to use for the right amount of festive feels.

THE GORGEOUS MARIGOLD

The common name used for the marigold flower is genda across India and doubles up as ‘Herb of the Sun’. Even with there being so many other beautiful and fragrant flowers like roses, it’s the vibrant sunshine-y hue of the marigold that is considered very auspicious and holds spiritual significance.

Marigold garlands are considered a sign of good fortune. Thus, it symbolises an individual’s ability to conquer anything as long as they keep their faith in the divine.

Also known as sthulapushpa in Sanskrit, the flower has a stout stalk, which symbolises trust in the divine. Its saffron colour is known to be the symbol of surrendering to God and its distinct fragrance is known to ward off stress and negative thoughts.

Marigold flowers have natural anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. These ornamental flowers also act as a natural insect repellent, as their fragrance keeps mosquitoes and bugs away.

Here are a few quick ways to make our homes Diwali-ready using this beautiful flower.

1. AS YOU ENTER

First impression is the last — I don’t think this holds much relevance in life generally, but it surely does when it comes to the entrance of your home. You can place some marigolds around your urli along with some leaves, other flowers, and pebbles or you can use them as floating flowers along with candles to give a very warm welcome to all guests coming to your place. After all, isn’t Diwali all about meeting and greeting?

2. AROUND THE TABLE WE SIT

Diwali is also all about food –– lots of it. And like we have spoken earlier too, the food always tastes better if it is served on a well-decorated table. You can place some flowers on a simple plate giving a very festive yet effective look or make a more elaborate decor using a variety of containers and using marigold flowers put on a stick and inserted into the oasis.

3. GRAB A CUPPA

Your living room seems to be the most commonly used one in your home at these times. You have your family gathering there, your taash parties, and friends chill zone –– so why not create one area which just adds to the festive vibe instantly? Take out your silverware (different shapes and sizes) and use this evergreen flower to create a festive vibe in your room. Use vases, urlis, stands and decorate them with this gorgeous flower.

4. FROM THE BALCONY

This seems to be the favourite part of my home and I always do whatever is required to make it a haven for me. You can try hanging these marigold flower latkans made along with mango leaves or maybe do a rangoli with a small snack counter.

And sometimes all you need to do is add a marigold garland around a tray in your room and you are set for Diwali. You can also make ice cubes with marigold petals –– we already know about all the medicinal value, right? And this will also add a festive feel to your drinks. Diwali decor is in full flow –– don’t forget to check out my page @design.on.the.go for more Diwali ideas.

PRO TIP: If any of you are marigold lovers, you must visit the Khirai Valley of flowers –– they have beds of marigold till your eyes can see! Till we meet again, Happy Diwali guys! Stay happy.

The author runs her own soft furnishing brand Onset while working with her family textile business. She has taught Textiles at the Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology and been a visiting lecturer at Philadelphia University and JDBI, Kolkata.