With the advent of a new decade, it is also time to usher in new festivities. The Indian calendar marks both the beginning of the fresh year and the season of spring, on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. Typically, the festival falls on the 14th of January, with the exception of leap years, wherein it is celebrated on the 15th of January. Astrologers also muse that this auspicious day marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn or Makar, indicating that the short days of winters are now officially behind us.

Homeowners, new and old - both celebrate this festival with great pomp, in hopes of warding off negativity from their home, at the beginning of the new year. Keeping the essence of the festival in mind, here are some Sankranti home decor ideas, that will ready your home for the festivities and create a positive space to live in. Both quick and easy, these DIY Sankranti decor ideas are all you need to ring in the festivities into your home.

DRAW RANGOLI PATTERNS

One of the simplest yet, eco-friendly ways of adding colour to your home, on the occasion of Sankranti is to draw or trace rangolis, at your doorstep and prominent spots in your home. It could either be a simple design, or an intricate one, dotted with oil lamps and flowers too. While traditionally, Sankranti rangoli patterns are mostly drawn in white, don't let this restrict you. Introduce a variety of colours into your design, allowing the refreshing look to brighten up your interiors. Do keep in mind that using eco-friendly rangoli colours or dyes is another step forward towards embracing cleaner and positive vibes for your home.

LIGHT IT UP

Lights are all one needs to change to look and feel of a space - be it open or closed. Introduce the element of more light into your living space, or your open garden and balcony, by hanging strings of fairy lights, giving an illusion of sparkle. To add another element of colour into the spaces, one can even make little paper lanterns or bring into clay candle holders. Another timeless classic is oil lamps. Line your window sills and doorways with oil lamps and light up your home in a natural hue, welcoming warmth and luck into your home.

GO FLORAL

No Indian festival is complete without flowers. From bouquets to wreaths to loose flower arrangements - even a sprinkle of petals is enough to elevate the look of any room in the house. This Sankranti, fill your glass bowls with water and bring in some flowers to float in them. Thick marigold garlands are another option that effortlessly adds a splash of colour to your doorways. The look is both simple and au natural.

BRING OUT THE KITES

Been looking for an opportunity to do some arts and crafts? Sankranti is your best bet! Bring out some colour paper, trimmings and frames, and create little colourful kites to string across your living room or balcony. This adds a touch of whimsical and brings in an element of quirk to your Sankranti celebrations.

ELEVATE YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE

Indian festivals are an occasion to eat and rejoice. Sankranti is just another festival that offers a plethora of delicacies. From sweets to savouries, the festival is known for its select taste. Instead of opting for a regular lunch seating, one can arrange snacks and the edibles in large bowls and line it on the kitchen island, allowing people to mingle and move across the house. This will not only make for a more modern dining experience, but it will also open up your living space and allow more dynamic exchanges.