The Decor Dump: Why DIY Matters
Every year, millions of plastic and foam decorations are bought for Diwali, used once, and then dumped. These materials often take hundreds of years to degrade and are a huge contributor to festive waste. The ultimate form of sustainability is upcycling—giving new life to waste that would otherwise be discarded.
Three Creative Upcycling Projects:
1. Newspaper Lanterns/Diyas: Collect old newspapers, glossy magazines, or cardboard boxes. Cut them into strips and roll them tightly, gluing the ends. Arrange these paper coils into geometric shapes to form beautiful, abstract lanterns or decorative bases for your clay diyas. Paint them with non-toxic, water-based paints, or decorate them with colourful bindis or gotapatti scraps.
2. Fabric Scrap Banners: Dig out old cotton kurtas or the plain parts of torn sarees and dupattas. Cut the fabric into small, uniform squares or triangles. Stitch or glue them onto a piece of rope or twine to create colorful, reusable bunting or torans. These can be used year after year.
3. Plastic Bottle Vases: Cut the tops off large plastic bottles, cover them completely with jute twine (glued on), and use them as vibrant, waterproof vases for your fresh flower garlands. This prevents the bottle from going to the landfill.
The Family Fun Factor
The DIY Diwali challenge is the perfect way to spend quality, screen-free time with family. It teaches children the concepts of waste reduction and circular economy in a practical, fun manner. The decorations you create will be entirely unique, holding sentimental value that a store-bought piece simply cannot match. This year, let your originality be your festive statement.