Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time of joy, celebration, and spiritual reflection. One of the most iconic elements of this vibrant festival is the use of Diwali candles to decorate homes, courtyards, and temples. These candles not only enhance the beauty of your surroundings but also symbolize the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. But to make the most out of your celebration, it’s essential to know how to burn candles safely, aesthetically, and sustainably.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to burn candles in Diwali—from choosing the right candles to placing them safely and creatively in your home.
Why Candles Are an Important Part of Diwali
The tradition of lighting lamps and candles during Diwali dates back centuries. It is believed that people lit diyas (oil lamps) to celebrate the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Over time, Diwali candles have become a modern alternative to traditional clay lamps, offering a cleaner, smoke-free, and often more colorful option for illumination.
Candles are used:
- To decorate entrances, balconies, and windows.
- To create sacred spaces during Lakshmi Puja.
- As centerpieces in Diwali rangoli designs.
- To set a peaceful, spiritual mood for evening prayers.
Types of Diwali Candles You Can Use
Before we discuss how to burn candles, let’s look at the different types of Diwali candles you can choose from:
1. Scented Candles
Infused with fragrances like sandalwood, rose, or jasmine, these candles elevate the festive mood and create a calming environment.
2. Decorative Wax Candles
These come in various shapes—flowers, diyas, stars, and even idols. They’re ideal for table decoration or placing near rangolis.
3. Floating Candles
Perfect for placing in a bowl of water with flower petals. These add a magical touch to your decor.
4. Tealight Candles
Compact, inexpensive, and versatile. Great for placing in holders, glass jars, or alongside rangoli designs.
5. LED Candles
Though not “burnt” in the traditional sense, LED Diwali candles are a safe and reusable option, especially in homes with pets or small children.
How to Burn Candles in Diwali: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose the Right Location
Location is everything. Candles should be placed in safe, stable areas away from curtains, paper decorations, or anything flammable. Ideal locations include:
- Balcony railings
- Window sills
- Main door entrances
- Corners of living rooms
- Prayer rooms and altars
Pro tip: Avoid high-traffic areas where people might accidentally knock over a burning candle.
2. Use Candle Holders or Trays
Always place candles in sturdy holders or on heat-resistant trays. This not only prevents wax spillage but also adds to the decorative value. Choose holders made of:
- Brass or metal (traditional look)
- Glass (modern and elegant)
- Clay (eco-friendly and rustic)
If you’re using tealight Diwali candles, you can place them in:
- Small terracotta diyas
- Glass jars filled with colorful stones
- Marble or ceramic plates
3. Keep Away from Wind
Since Diwali is often celebrated with windows open or in outdoor spaces, make sure your candles are not exposed to wind. Wind can:
- Blow out the flame
- Cause flickering that may burn surroundings
- Result in uneven melting
You can shield your candles by placing them in lanterns, glass domes, or using candle holders with protective edges.
4. Trim the Wick
Before lighting, trim the wick of each candle to about 1/4 inch. A shorter wick:
- Prevents excessive smoke
- Ensures a stable flame
- Reduces soot
It also helps your Diwali candles burn evenly and last longer.
5. Light Candles Safely
Use a long matchstick or a candle lighter to light your candles. This keeps your hands safe and allows you to reach deeper holders or clustered arrangements. If lighting multiple candles together:
- Start from the back and move forward
- Avoid leaning over already-lit candles
- Light from left to right to avoid crossing over flames
6. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended
This may sound obvious, but during Diwali, when there are distractions with guests, gifts, and celebrations, it’s easy to forget. Make sure:
- Someone is always around the burning area
- You extinguish candles before leaving or sleeping
- Children and pets are kept away from candle zones
7. Extinguish Candles Properly
Instead of blowing out the flame, use a snuffer or place a metal lid over the candle to cut off the oxygen. Blowing can spread hot wax and cause burns or damage nearby decorations.
Once extinguished, allow candles to cool before moving them.
Creative Ways to Use Diwali Candles in Your Decor
Now that you know how to burn candles safely, let’s look at some ideas to incorporate them into your Diwali decor:
Rangoli with Candles
Place tealight Diwali candles around or inside your rangoli designs for a glowing, vibrant look.
Floating Bowl Decor
Fill a brass or ceramic bowl with water, flower petals, and floating candles. Add a few drops of essential oil for a sensory experience.
Staircase Illumination
Place candles on each step, spaced evenly. It creates a stunning entrance look. Ensure stability and wind protection.
Candle Centerpieces
Combine decorative wax candles with marigolds or string lights for dining tables or prayer rooms.
Eco-Friendly Tips for Using Diwali Candles
Diwali is also a time to reflect on sustainability. Here are a few ways to make your candle-burning experience more environmentally friendly:
- Opt for soy or beeswax candles instead of paraffin wax, which is petroleum-based.
- Reuse glass jars or containers as holders.
- Buy locally made Diwali candles, supporting artisans and reducing transportation footprint.
- Avoid candles with synthetic glitter or plastic decorations, which are non-biodegradable.
Safety Checklist for Burning Diwali Candles
To wrap up, here’s a quick safety checklist:
✅ Use stable, non-flammable holders
✅ Keep candles away from curtains, paper, and cloth
✅ Never leave burning candles unattended
✅ Trim wicks to ¼ inch
✅ Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby
✅ Avoid placing near children and pets
✅ Burn candles in ventilated, draft-free spaces
Final Thoughts
Lighting Diwali candles is more than just a decorative ritual—it’s a symbolic gesture of hope, clarity, and celebration. When done thoughtfully, it enhances the spiritual and visual charm of the festival. By choosing the right candles, placing them with care, and following basic safety measures, you can enjoy a radiant and accident-free Diwali.
May your home be filled with light, warmth, and happiness this festive season. Happy Diwali! 🪔
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