By Frank Lucasale 
The first Diwali I spent away from home, the silence was a punch to the gut. There were no frantic phone calls about the sweets, no messy kitchen, and definitely no marathon of stringing marigold thread garlands. If you’re currently scrolling through family photos and feeling that hollow ache, know this: you are not alone.
This year, we’re not chasing Instagram perfection or trying to replicate the chaos of home. We’re embracing the festival’s true spirit—the victory of light over darkness—by focusing on small, personal rituals. This is your guide to having a meaningful, traditional solo Diwali celebration, turning your small apartment into a sanctuary that feels deeply connected to home, even from a thousand miles away.
1. The Ritual of Scent & Light: Banishing the Quiet
When you’re alone, the quiet can be the hardest part. The purpose of Diwali lighting is symbolic: to banish that darkness and usher in warmth. Forget huge LED setups and focus on the original power source.
Embrace the Clay Diya:
Buy a pack of simple clay diyas. They are inexpensive and instantly transport you back to childhood. Light them with ghee in every corner of your room, not just for decoration, but to create a network of soft, flickering light. This is the authentic natural home lighting for Diwali that creates true shanti (peace).
The Power of Aroma:
The blend of ghee and fire instantly elevates the mood. To truly send change the mood, supplement this with an authentic scent. Try Aromatherapy Naturally to feel that calmness and spirituality around you. It’s a simple, soothing act of self-care.
Small Apartment Sparkle:
Use simple string lights to highlight things you love, like the leaves of your areca palms or a bookshelf. It’s the easiest simple Diwali decor for small apartments that feels festive without being overwhelming.
2. The Ritual of Hand & Earth: Grounding Yourself
When your mind is racing with loneliness, the best remedy is to engage your hands in something traditional and meditative.
The Humble Marigold:
Buy a bunch of marigold (genda phool) flowers and a piece of simple thread. Take the time to string a small garland. Hang this marigold thread garland over your door. It’s a beautiful tradition that requires focused, repetitive motion—a perfect antidote to a scattered mind.
Tiny Flower Rangoli:
Don’t worry about large, elaborate powder designs. Gather a few petals and leaves to create a tiny, beautiful easy DIY flower rangoli design on a small plate or by your door. The act of arranging the petals is a meditative process that makes your space feel sacred.
When the rush of loneliness hits, it can feel overwhelming. If the memories become a little too sharp, if you are really missing your family you can read this block for support.
3. The Ritual of Connection & Reflection
Since you can’t share your space with family, you can share your love and connect with the deeper purpose of the day.
Handmade Gifts with Love:
The best part of being away is that your love has to travel farther, and it should be felt. Spend time making one small, thoughtful gift for a loved one. This is how you create true handmade Diwali gifts with love. Think simple: hand-poured candles, a batch of handmade chocolate, or a small, hand-painted poster you can mail. The process of making it is the true connection.
The Taste of Home:
The heart of Diwali is the mithai. Even if it’s just a single serving, make one small batch of the festive sweet you miss the most—perhaps a simple homemade laddus tradition. The aroma of the kitchen and the taste of the sweet will instantly connect you back to your mother’s kitchen.
Closing the Day with Gratitude:
After the lights are lit, take ten minutes to reflect on the joy and wisdom the year has brought. This quiet, non-commercial reflection is the how to feel connected during Diwali away from family. If you need structure for that quiet time, consider trying these Joining from journalling prompts.
This Diwali, remember that you carry the light of home within you.
We would love to know: What single handmade ritual made you feel most connected to your family this year? Share your story in the comments below! Let’s build a network of light for others celebrating a solo Diwali.
HAPPY DIWALI !