Handmade Diyas

Diya is a small lamp, usually made of clay that is lit on many auspicious occasions in the Hindu tradition. They are especially lit during different festivals across the country. They are also known as divaa, deepam, and deepak. Out of all the festivals, diyas is an integral part of Diwali, also known as the festival of diyas.

The history of the origin of diyas goes back to the period of Ramayana. It is said that when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years, people wanted to celebrate his homecoming. Since it was the night of Amavasya, there was no moon night. Hence, people lit up the entire Ayodhaya with candles and diyas. Since then, every year this particular Amavasya is celebrated with diyas as the Diwali festival. Lighting of diyas symbolizes the victory of good over evil and darkness over light.

Diyas are an alternative to electricity in rural areas where there is no power. It is a cheap source of light. To light a diya, you only require a little ghee or mustard oil and a wick made of cotton.

Since lighting of diyas is considered auspicious, they are used to mark the beginning of any event, such as a business meet, a dance competition, or a musical evening.

Different types of diyas are available in the market. Some are plain ones made by a potter in a traditional manner. The others are ceramic diyas made by ceramic designers. One variety includes the plain ones in bright colors of pink, yellow, blue, and gold. All of them are available in big and small sizes. There are diyas decorated with zari, mirrors, and dried flowers. Fancy diyas are filled with colored wax.

During Diwali, you can find markets flooded with Ganesha and Lakshmi idols having diya-like spouts. Floating diyas have recently gained popularity. They are shaped like leaves and roses.

Diyas can be easily made at home. It is a fun activity for children during festivals and art and craft classes in schools. To learn to make diyas for diwali, you can send your little one to any of the homemade diya making class for kids.

If you are interested in pursuing handmade diya making as a profession, then you need to join any of the professional certified handmade diyas course workshops for beginners in Mumbai. You can also take up certificate diploma diya making courses in Mumbai.