Every picture may tell a story; but if it is a flatlay of your Diwali table that’s the centrepiece of your Diwali shindig, then it better tell a story of immersion, festivities and sensory play. Tablescaping has not been an afterthought since the early 2010s. And, every flatlay you have saved/pinned on your Instagram/Pinterest is a testament to that. What is so bussin’ about tablescaping (table styling), anyway? Besides social media currency, tablescaping lets us visually express ourselves to our guests. And, what are we if not expressive?!
So, this Diwali, wow your guests with a — as GenZ would say — non-cheugy table. Remember, Diwali tablescapes are all about balance and loads of fun. Yes, you can have a QR-coded menu or smart tech lighting, but don’t forget to add traditional elements; it’s Diwali after all.
First off, pick a theme
Since tablescaping is all about self-expression, you do you! But if you are looking to tie the whole thing together with a statement theme, then let me help you. Wear your Indianness loud and proud with neo-desi maximal: think a mix of reds, yellows and greens, block prints, and brass. Or you can make biophilia your core theme with Indian plants gracing your table along with the terracotta serveware or floral hand-painted trays. Or go for a maximalist theme with gold, midnight blue hues, silver and golden urlis and candlestands.
Get the base sorted
Table covers, runners, mats, and napkins are a must. When putting together a Diwali tablescape, these really come together to complement your core theme. Jaypore has some beautiful block-printed table cloths, runners, and MDF mats. The Whishing Chair’s table covers are quirky and bright-coloured. Pottery Barn’s runners and throws will cohesively tie in your vision. Check Sarita Handa’s luxury table linen and covers for bespoke-ness. Dorii have some luxury table runners and mats.
Serveware that speaks volumes
Your choice of serveware says a lot about you as a host. Banaras Bhang (by Samir Modi) has curated a festive edit that features Casalatina serveware, sculptural Kage platters and more splendid dinnerware that will become conversation starters. Yellow Marigold, a design brand from Dehradun, has a Kansa (bronze) dinner range, hand-painted trays with black olives, sweet magnolias, pink azalea, and more. There’s something unique when form meets function, and that’s what you will see in their offering. If you are looking for more earthy serveware, then Nestasia has curated a Terracotta dinnerware range. If you are leaning towards traditional silverware, then Kalyani Saha’s Rezon Silverware has a whole range of silver dinner sets. Don’t forget to pick out complementary glassware for the drinks. Modern Quests, Nestasia, and Amala Earth have stunning drinkware.
Flowers, flowers and more flowers
Tablescaping is incomplete without a floral statement. Bloom Barn by Archana Raniwala takes care of all your floral arrangements. They do tablescapes really well, and you can even get them to customise as per your request. Dried flowers also make for a great element. Check Maeva’s stunning collection. Interflora’s festive edit is worth checking out, as well.
Lights, camera, diyas and candles
Is it even Diwali if your table doesn’t spotlight urlis, diya stands, votives and candle holders? Banaras Bhang has Peri Living Oil Lamps and JU tea light holders, hurricanes and votives. I am eyeing Trove Craft’s elephant, lotus and pichwai art tea-light holders. Address Home has statement candle holders. Elvy has unique candelabras and crystal candle holders that will lend a very ritzy vibe to your tablescape.
Remember to use non-scented diyas and candles for your table because you don’t want to subdue the aromas of the sumptuous meal you will have at the table. Balance the height on the table: surface level, hand level elements and sightline balance. Don’t overdo any one aspect; it should all come together.
Also Read:
Home Makeover – The Diwali Edit
Crave-Worthy Edible Diwali Gifts of 2025
The New Sweet Economy: How Mithai Got a Modern Makeover (and a Cool Companion)
