Festive Home Decor Ideas to Give Your Palace an Ethnic Charm

Article of the Month - Oct 2021

This article by Prakriti Anand, who is currently pursuing her PhD in Ancient Indian History from the University of Delhi. Prakriti has experience working with organizations in the realms of heritage, art, and history and is committed to advancing contributions to the field of culture.

(Viewed 3348 times since Oct 2021)

India’s vast repertoire of hand-crafted decor and design finds its origins in folklore, mythology, epics and native customs, and all region’s arts and crafts are an intrinsic reflection of our ethnic diversity and fascinating culture.

Inspired from the grandeur of forts, palaces, temples, besides rich handicrafts from different regions of the country, the traditional Indian decor never goes out of style. You can incorporate these ideas to effortlessly lend an ethnic flavour to your house.

The Many Crafts of Rajasthan


Whether textilespotterymarble work or art, Rajasthan has a plethora of traditional crafts that can add colour and life to your home. The state has a rich legacy of block printing done on fabrics like cotton and khadi. These are ideal for upholstery and furnishings and can lend a seamless Indian essence to your decor.

Throw in some handmade blue pottery artefacts from Jaipur and you have the perfect look. A very popular architectural marvel of Rajasthan is the wooden jharokhas that can lend a stunning makeover to any mundane wall. If you are a fan of Indian art then look no further than the Pichwai paintings of Nathdwara, which is a traditional style of painting typically done on cloth with Lord Krishna and his tales being the central theme.

Bihar’s renowned Madhubani art


An art form that traces its origin to Mithila in Bihar, Madhubani is an art form that is refined, beautiful and extremely vibrant. The painting is characterised by geometrical patterned borders, and intricate lines and depicts festivals and rituals. An assortment of Madhubani frames in different sizes is a wonderful idea for that empty wall in your living room.

The Rustic Charm of Eastern India’s Dhokra


Dhokra is a metal craft with a history of over 5,000 years. The metal figurines are made using the lost wax casting process and the craftsmen use bronze and copper-based alloys in their creations. The human and animal statues that have a thin and delicate shape are characteristic of the art form. The craft is entirely done by hand which lends it an element of imperfection and also adds to its organic and rustic charm.

Embellish with Handloom


Decorate the house with handloom textiles like khaditussar silk and cotton fabricsSome typical Indian prints and patterns include ikatajrakhkalamkari, block printing and tie-dyeOne can create a layered effect within the interiors by mixing and matching these textiles and using these for curtains, bedspread, upholstery, cushions, throw pillows, carpet and table covers. Jute fabrics can be used for smaller pieces of furniture like footstools or as chics for the windows.

Sacred Beauty of Traditional Wooden Temples


Handcrafted miniature temples, made with sturdy and polished wood, marble and metal are a piece of sacred decoration, perfect to be added to your space this festive season. Available in a variety of sizes and designs inspired by the ancient temples of Nagara, Vesara and Dravida style sanctums, these temples are often decorated with auspicious signs such as Swastika, Om, Sri and images of Hindu gods and goddesses, along with various secondary details that make them the centre of attraction while becoming an ideal home to your deities.

Antique Appeal of Indian Doors


Crafted in the Western region of the country, antique wooden doors are synonymous with regalia and celebration as a part of the palatial structures of palaces and Havelis, forming the entryways to these grand structures, and attracting the eye with their detailed carvings and vintage metal components. You can add a traditional Indian door as a centrepiece to your home, or you can use it as a part of your home Puja temple, creating an aesthetic heaven for the deity while transforming your space in a royal arena.

Furnishing Traditionally

Whether you have chosen the festive season to move into a new home or you are thinking of amping up the interior of your house, it is never the wrong time to pick traditional Indian furniture. It could be something as simple as a side table crafted with pure brass or wood, a simple chowki for your deity or it could be a masterpiece of traditional wooden wardrobe or marble and Meenakari tabletop to express your royal taste. Depending upon your budget, need and space, traditional Indian furnishings are a great way to include India’s charm in your space this festive season.

Luxury of Indian Carpets and Rugs


Looking to create a cosy reading corner for yourself? Or do you want to welcome your guests with the luxury of silk carpets? Indian carpets and rugs for centuries have been a part of grand interiors with a balance of comfort and craftsmanship. For a modern interior, you can go for handwoven rugs from Mirzapur which are available in a variety of designs, colours and sizes, each one made for the minimal and personal mood of your space. For those who want to go a little over the top to display their love for traditional Indian crafts, handmade silk and woollen carpets from Kashmir are the perfect pick, which will instantaneously make any room into the interiors of a mystical Indian palace with their ornate and delicate appeal.

Fragrance of Festivities: Incense Burners 


Low on space but still wish to pamper yourself and your home with a touch of festive feels? Go for a traditional Indian dhoopdani or incense burner, made with metal and adorned with ethnic motifs and foliage that gives it an intriguing appeal, while the slowly rising vapours from the burner will make your space smell festive as well. For the lover of chic statement pieces, crystal candle jars with scented candles and wooden candle stands are also great options for minimal decoration.

Transform Your Home with Vastu Decor


Vastu pieces, whether it is a Yantra, icon or decorative item are powerful décor items that have transformative effects, removing negativity and bringing positivity to your space, and the festivals are a great time to get advice from an expert and buy the best Vastu décor for your home. Popular Vastu items are the Vastu Turtle, conch or Shankha, elephants, Vastu Surya image and icons of gods and goddesses. After knowing about the ideal Vastu tips for your home, pick an article made with pure material from a trusted source, to ensure that you bring an auspicious and perfect piece of Vastu décor.

Picking the Best Festive Home Decor: In Conclusion

As a period of celebrations and festivals comes close, we all start planning to purchase the best home décor to prepare our houses for the joyous days ahead. The task of getting the perfect home décor does not have to be a task as such. Visit Exotic India Art, where a dedicated collection of traditional and modern Indian home décor, curated under a useful section is created, especially for times like this, when you should be working less, and enjoying more!

Have a happy and festive time! 

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