Onam 2024 decoration ideas: Easy, affordable ways to use flowers and leaves as decor for Onam

Onam, a colourful festival celebrated in Kerala, marks the arrival of the mythical King Mahabali. It is a time of grand celebrations, with traditional festivities that include intricate floral arrangements, elaborate feasts, and cultural performances. The festival is a celebration of unity and prosperity, and it brings families together to enjoy the joyous occasion.

As the Onam festivities unfold, the sight of women in elegant white sarees with golden borders and men in traditional mundus adds a touch of grace and tradition. The aroma of the sadya, a grand feast served on banana leaves, fills the air, inviting everyone to partake in the culinary delights of the season. With such a rich traditions, it’s essential that the decor reflects the same spirit of celebration and cultural significance.

Also read | Onam 2024: Date, Time, Rituals, History, and Significance of Kerala’s Biggest Festival

Using flowers and leaves is an easy and affordable way to infuse your home with the vibrant and traditional essence of Onam. Here are 6 simple DIY floral decor ideas to brighten up your space for the festival:

Pookalam: Pookalam, or floral rangoli, is a quintessential Onam decoration that involves creating intricate patterns using colorful flower petals. Start by arranging a base of green leaves in a circular pattern on the floor. Then, use petals from marigolds, chrysanthemums, and roses to form vibrant designs. You can create geometric patterns, traditional motifs, or even spell out "Onam" for a personal touch.

• Tip: Mix different flower colors to enhance the visual appeal, and place a lamp or candle in the center to illuminate your creation.

Onam 2024 decoration ideas: Welcome guests with beautiful floral torans hanging above your doorways. Create these by stringing together fresh flowers like jasmine, hibiscus, and rose petals (Image: Canva)

Floral torans: Welcome guests with beautiful floral torans hanging above your doorways. Create these by stringing together fresh flowers like jasmine, hibiscus, and rose petals. Use a strong thread or wire to secure the flowers, and attach them to a decorative base made of leaves or fabric. These torans not only add a festive touch but also infuse your home with a pleasant fragrance.

• Tip: For a lasting effect, consider using dried flowers or artificial ones if you’re preparing in advance.

Onam 2024: Create eye-catching centerpieces for your dining table or living room using a combination of flowers and leaves (Image: Canva)

Leaf and flower centerpieces: Create eye-catching centerpieces for your dining table or living room using a combination of flowers and leaves. Arrange fresh flowers like orchids, lilies, and carnations in a vase, and surround the base with large, glossy leaves such as banana or betel leaves. This combination highlights the traditional elements of Onam while adding a splash of color to your decor.

• Tip: Add a few candles or tea lights around the centerpiece to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Also read | Onam 2024: 5 Essential Sadhya dishes & how to make Kaalan, a banana and yam curry

Floral garlands: Floral garlands are a timeless decoration that can be used to adorn various parts of your home. Create garlands using a string or wire, and thread through flowers like marigolds, roses, and tuberoses. Drape these garlands across windows, door frames, or even around mirrors to add a touch of elegance.

• Tip: Make your garlands in advance and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer.

Flower adorned lamps: Give your lamps a festive makeover by decorating them with flowers and leaves. Wrap a string of flowers around the lamp’s base or shade, or use a floral arrangement as a base for the lamp. The soft glow through the flowers will create a warm and inviting ambiance for your Onam celebrations.

• Tip: Choose flowers that have a subtle fragrance so as not to overpower the room’s scent.

Floral wall art: Add a burst of colour to your walls with DIY floral wall art. Create a large floral frame by arranging fresh or artificial flowers around a picture frame or canvas. You can also make flower-based designs on a blank canvas using glue and flower petals. This artwork can serve as a stunning backdrop for photos and festive gatherings.

• Tip: Use a mix of flower colors and shapes to create a visually appealing design that complements your overall decor.