Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Hindu festival of lights. It is celebrated on the darkest night of the Hindu lunisolar month, Kartika. It typically falls in late October or early November, as Diwali symbolizes the winning of light over dark. To celebrate Diwali, there are, of course, lights, called light diyas, which are clay lamps, but also flowers play an important role in celebrations.
Flowers are used for religious rituals, decorations, and gift-giving during Diwali. Often, the flowers chosen are typically very bright–usually white, yellow, red, or purple flowers—that symbolize new beginnings, good luck, and prosperity. Here are some of the most popular flowers during Diwali and why they are special.
Popular Diwali Flowers
Many different flowers are used to celebrate Diwali. The most popular include:
Lotus
The lotus is a symbol of purity, beauty, and prosperity, and it is often associated with the goddess Lakshmi, who is worshipped on Diwali.
Marigold
Marigolds are another popular flower used for Diwali. They are known for their bright colors and strong fragrance. Marigolds are said to bring good luck and fortune.
Rose
Roses are another beautiful and fragrant flower that is often used for Diwali. They are associated with love, joy, and new beginnings.
Jasmine
Jasmine is a sweet-smelling flower that is often used in Hindu religious ceremonies, but they are also a popular flower for Diwali.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a colorful flower that is said to represent power and strength. The hibiscus flower symbolizes power and strength.
Using Flowers for Diwali
Flowers can be used in many different ways for Diwali celebrations, but here are the traditional methods that flowers are during Diwali celebrations:
Decorate
Flowers are a great tool when decorating any space for Diwali. A very popular decoration for Diwali is flower garlands that can hung from windows or doorways. They are also used in rangoli designs on the floor. Marigold and Jasmine are great flowers for both.
Gifts
Aside from decoration, flowers are also a thoughtful and appreciated gift for Diwali. You can give your loved ones bouquets of flowers, flower arrangements, or even just a few individual flowers.
Let’s Celebrate
These are just the most popular flowers. Other flowers that are sometimes used for Diwali include lilies, chrysanthemums, and gerberas. However, at Mayflowers, we say that the best flowers to use for Diwali are the ones that are locally in-season varieties. They stay fresher and vibrant longer.
No matter what flowers you choose and how you choose to use them, flowers are always a beautiful and auspicious addition to any Diwali celebration.