Page 21 - Masala Lite Issue 190 October 2026

FLICKERING AND BRIGHT (Diyas & Rangoli)

The diya is the most symbolic way to represent Diwali. It’s in all the greeting cards,
in the WhatsApp forwards, and in the ceremonies. We’ve all heard the anecdote of
lighting every room with diyas so the Goddess Lakshmi can find her way into each
room of the house and bestow prosperity upon it. There is a giddy, almost-childlike
joy in lighting each wick and rushing to place in the correct room before the wind (or
any sort of direct breathing) extinguishes the delicate flame. Diyas have come a long
way since the simple clay designs. These days, you can find ones which are intricately
painted or if you prefer to have them all in one spot when you do the aarti, gorgeous
diya stands. When express shipping from India fails or you fear being hit with a heavy
customs fine, why not revisit the Little India Alley of Phahurat? As you walk along the
paved, and slightly congested, Chakkraphet Road, gently elbowing other customers
out of the way, you are spoiled for choice.
The area is dotted with little shopfronts filled to the brim with clay, terracotta, and
sometimes even metal diyas. They come in various shapes and sizes and you could
honestly spend a whole day looking at colours and designs. Although many of the shops
are unmarked, they are unmistakable by the large flower (both artificial and genuine)
garlands hanging from the crossbeams. P.S.: You can also find the powders required
for rangolis (or rangoli stickers that can be reused year after year) at these shops too.

CHOTA DHAMAKA, BADI SAVINGS (Fireworks)

It is no surprise that Diwali, the festival of lights, is incomplete without the brilliant
crackle and spark of festive pyrotechnics. Sparklers, fountains, and pop snaps bring
an undeniable joy to the night, illuminating the streets and backyards as families
gather to celebrate.
Operating for over 80 years, KhunAd Shopfirework is one of Bangkok’s oldest and
most trusted purveyors of fireworks and festival lights. Whether you are looking for
classic sparklers, colourful ground fountains, or child-friendly novelty snaps for your
home Diwali setup, this long-standing legacy shop provides a safe and extensive
selection to bring that bright, essential festive magic to your celebrations.

ALL-ACCESS INTO BANGKOK’S CONTEMPORARY INDIAN LIFESTYLE
ALL-ACCESS INTO BANGKOK’S CONTEMPORARY INDIAN LIFESTYLE