Have you recently been watching “Yeh Hai Mohabbatein?” Have those Indian telly soaps inspired you to have a typical Indian desi home décor? If yes, then let’s have a look at some essential ideas that might bring an Indian touch to your home!

#1. Always More Lighting

If you had ever watched “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi”, you would have noticed how much lighting is used in a typical Indian home. But, just a word of advice guys, watch this series only when you have nothing else to do.

Lighting is considered as an essential element of Hindu decoration. Why? As a Hindu, let me tell you that for us, the presence of light represents the non-existence of darkness and evil forces. Light stands for knowledge and wisdom while darkness symbolises all negative forces, such as wickedness, destruction, violence, lust, etc. For example, during Diwali, an Indian festival celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar month Kartika, all Hindus light numerous lamps to get rid of then darkness.

As a result, good lighting is a must for Indian home décor and well, lighting is an element that can accentuate a home’s architectural features and make it look more appealing and alluring. Nowadays, there are numerous lighting options of different colours and sizes available on the market, such as floor lamps, table lamps, hanging lamps, chandeliers, etc. I also recommend using energy-saving bulbs if you want a more efficient and cost-effective lighting system.

However, we also believe in natural sunlight as the sun’s presence in our home depicts Surya, the God of the Sun. For example, early in the morning, I tend to open all windows, doors and curtains and let the beautiful sun rays to enter and illuminate my home.

#2. Add Vibrant Colours

Colours play a significant role in both Indian culture and religion. For instance, Holi is an Indian festival that symbolises the triumph of good over evil and which is celebrated with colours. If you want to bring that Indian Desi touch to your home, make sure you choose some bright and vivid colours.

For example, some of the colours that are preferred are given below:

• Red: In the Hindu religion, red has a strong and powerful meaning. For instance, it is the most frequently used colour for auspicious occasions like weddings and is also used, as a sign for married women, in the form of “sindoor”, a traditional red vermilion. Red also represents the colour of the Goddess Shakti.

• Yellow: For Hindus, yellow is the colour that stands for knowledge, learning, happiness, peace and meditation. For instance, the dresses of both Lord Vishnu and Ganesha are yellow.

• Saffron: Did you know that saffron is considered as the most sacred colour in Hinduism? This colour represents fire and as impurities can be burnt by fire, it also symbolises purity. However, this colour also holds a sacred meaning as it is associated with holy men and ascetics who have renounced the world.

#3. Don’t Forget the Scents

Indian home décor does not only include aesthetics but also scents. And guys, when I am referring to scents, I am not talking about putting some air freshener in the house after a clogged toilet has infected the whole house. I am speaking about that deep and unique scent present in a home.

The scent of a space can not only prevent your home from smelling like a sewer but can also set the right ambience. Below you will find some ideas to make your home smell great:

• Sandalwood Incense: It is a fragrant wood that is always associated with the Indian culture and that can be traced back to India and Australia. However, compared to others, it can retain its fragrance for many years. It is even said that if stored correctly, it can last for many decades. Decades? Can you imagine that? So, I recommend the sweet and woody scent of the sandalwood incense for a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

• Pot-pourri: If like me, it’s the first time you hear this word, then welcome to the club. Pot-pourri actually refers to a mixture of dried and naturally fragrant plant materials that can be used to freshen rooms.

• Marigold Flowers: Yes, if you want a typical Indian scent in your home, add some Marigold flowers. Their musky and alluring smell is often associated with Indian weddings or pujas.

What do you say about the Indian home décor style ideas? Please share your comments!