DIY decorations to fragrances: Home decor tips for Lohri
Times of India | 14 January 2025
Lohri is a festival that symbolises warmth, gratitude, and the joy of togetherness, marking the transition to longer days and the celebration of nature's bounty. Anjaleka Kripalani, founder of Angie Homes says, “One can bring the ambiance of the season into their space with lively colours, gentle textures, and vibrant touches that iInclude natural fabrics such as wood, woven textiles, and colorful fabrics to blend nostalgia with a contemporary vibe.”
Suggesting some ways to bring in a touch of Punjab into your homes, Lalitesh Mandrekar, general manager- design, Godrej Interio said, “Infuse your home with traditional Punjabi elements like phulkari-embroidered cushions, brass utensils, and vibrant rangoli designs at the entrance to set the festive tone. Complement these with bright pink and yellow cushions or curtains that reflect the season's joyous spirit and the new hope that Lohri symbolises. Modern touches, such as fairy lights can make the bonfire area the heart of the celebration—perfect for gathering with family and friends to sing, share stories, and create cherished memories.”
DIY decorations for Lohri
Incorporating DIY décor into your celebrations not only adds a personalised aesthetic but also pays homage to the cultural and traditional significance of this vibrant festival. This Lohri, consider crafting décor elements that reflect the essence of the occasion.
Handmade paper kites can serve as striking wall hangings, symbolising freedom and aspiration.
Repurposing materials like fabric scraps to create colourful buntings or table runners can enhance the festive ambiance while embracing sustainability.
For those seeking a rustic charm, wheat stalks, mustard flowers, and earthen pots can be arranged into striking centerpieces that honour Lohri’s agricultural heritage.
Crafting eco-friendly torans from dried flowers, beads, and natural fibers can add a welcoming touch to doorways and windows, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
Outdoor spaces, integral to Lohri celebrations, can also be elevated through thoughtful DIY initiatives. String lights, handmade lanterns, and custom-designed seating arrangements with traditional-inspired throws and cushions can create an inviting and comfortable environment around a bonfire.
Designing a focal area for the festivities with elements like hand-painted wooden trays or personalised nameplates adds an exclusive touch, turning even the simplest of spaces into a festive hub.
–Inputs by Giulia Baima Bollone, director – Embassy Interiors Pvt. Ltd.
Fragrances to include as part of decorations
If you wish to take your celebration to new heights, then along with the fragrance of roasted sesame seeds and jaggery sweets, adding the right fragrances would do. Here’s how you can set the perfect ambiance with fragrances for these winter festivals:
1. Woody and smoky notes
As the festival of Lohri is turned around a bonfire, it calls for smoky and woody scents. Try utilizing sizzling scents of sandalwood, cedarwood, or patchouli. Mixing these earthy scents with the bonfire’s organic smell would have a more inviting and warm effect.
2. Floral and spicy accents
Makar Sankranti symbolizes the sun’s entry into Capricorn and with it comes new beginnings, new opportunities, alongside the perfect time to set the occasion with floral scented fragrances like jasmine, rose, and marigold with spicy hints of either cinnamon or even clove. People tend to use these floral fragrances when celebrating during the day or flying kites and they work perfectly.
3. Sweet and gourmand scents
The sweet dishes prepared with jaggery, sesame, and peanuts are among the most crucial foods throughout both of the festivals. To balance out those traditional sweets, try wearing gourmet scents with notes of vanilla, caramel, and honey.These sweet smells will surely elevate the festive mood and remind one of past memories.
4. Citrus and herbal blends:
During the day, especially when flying kites, wearing bright fragrances with citrus notes will be a great idea. Alternatively, if one is looking for light fragrances, some citrus elements such as those that include orange, lemon or bergamot with hints of mint or basils are refreshing fragrance notes.