Invest in Timeless Brass
The soft glow of a traditional Nilavilakku (Kerala lamp) is central to Onam celebrations. Instead of disposable options, investing in high-quality brass lamps, urlis (wide, shallow vessels), and other cookware is a smart, sustainable choice. These items
are not just for Onam; they are heirloom pieces that gain character over time. An urli filled with water and floating flowers or diyas can be a stunning centrepiece for any festival or even daily decor. After the festivities, clean them thoroughly, polish if needed, and they can be displayed year-round or stored for the next celebration.
Embrace Versatile Textiles
Textiles offer a powerful yet simple way to bring in the festive spirit. The traditional Kerala kasavu, with its elegant cream and gold design, is a perfect example. Instead of buying single-use paper decorations, consider investing in a kasavu saree or fabric. These can be draped as beautiful backdrops, used as table runners, or even fashioned into cushion covers. Unlike plastic decorations, textiles are easy to wash, fold, and store, ready to bring their understated elegance to Onam, Vishu, or any other special occasion.
Rethink the Pookalam
The pookalam, or floral carpet, is the heart of Onam decor, but its ephemeral nature is part of its charm. While the fresh flowers themselves are biodegradable and best composted, you can make other parts of the tradition reusable. Instead of drawing directly on the floor, consider a reusable wooden or metal base. For indoor settings, you can create smaller, permanent pookalam-inspired art using coloured rice, or even invest in a high-quality artificial pookalam mat that can be used for years, especially in apartments or homes without outdoor space.
Choose Natural, Multi-use Elements
Onam decor is deeply connected to nature. Elements like woven cane or bamboo baskets, terracotta diyas, and wooden figurines add an earthy, authentic touch. These items are inherently reusable. Baskets used to display fruits and flowers during Onam can become stylish storage solutions for the rest of the year. Terracotta or clay diyas can be used for Diwali and other festivals, providing a warm, traditional glow that is more eco-friendly than plastic tea lights.
Master the Art of Storage
The key to reusability is proper storage, especially in India's humid climate. Before packing anything away, ensure it is completely clean and dry. Wrap delicate items like brass lamps or wooden crafts in soft muslin cloth to prevent scratches and tarnishing. Store smaller items in clearly labelled boxes to make them easy to find next year. For items like fairy lights, wrap them around a piece of cardboard to avoid a tangled mess. A little care after the festival ensures your decorations emerge in perfect condition for the next one.
Creative Repurposing Year-Round
Many Onam decorations can find a new life beyond the festival. That beautiful brass urli can be a statement piece in your living room, holding water and petals. Hand-painted terracotta pots can be used for indoor plants. Even wooden miniature snake boats (Chundan Vallam) or Kathakali masks, often bought as festive decor, can serve as permanent, culturally rich art pieces in your home, reminding you of the festive joy all year long. By thinking of your decorations as long-term additions to your home, you naturally choose items with more permanence and meaning.
