By Ambika Nagaraj

It’s Deepavali the coming week and the sounds of crackers and sparkling colourful lights adorning the sky are nothing short of a visual treat. Diwali is one festival that is never complete without the bright and colourful lamps and lanterns, while the markets aptly begin to get filled and turn abuzz with sales of a wide variety of colourful lamps in many different colours shapes and sizes. Let’s see what’s new and special in Mysuru markets this season:

Metal made lanterns: You can go in for these sturdy vibrant metal lanterns with rainbow coloured papers stuck from within for that multi-hued ambience by twilight at home. They are quite sturdy and classy and also add a special zing to your dwelling!

Paper made lamp shades: Here we reintroduce to you, the colourful paper lamps that are a rage not just during Diwali but also during other times. Found in markets in many sober shades, they can be hung over hanging bulbs at home all through the year and not just during Deepavali.

Indian lanterns: These are Indian lanterns with a difference. They are traditional looking lanterns with artificial lights within. They make perfect pieces to decorate open spaces or gardens with tall trees during night times during Diwali or even otherwise.

The Chinese lanterns: According to a few shop owners, the Chinese lanterns do good sales off late. Available in many different shapes and shades with golden motifs upon them, they look gorgeous when lit up post nightfall.

Jelly Candles and Glass Shades: Glass shades are what will stay with you for longer. Sold at lifestyle stores or shops that sell lamps, shades and chandeliers, they are extremely elegant. Glass shades are available in glasses of varied shades which can be used in many different ways during different occasions. You either hang them over the hanging bulbs or keep them in places that you desire to, by lighting candles or diyas within.

Clay, ceramic and Mud lamps: Clay lamps are evergreen and are cheap and best for daily usage too. Available in prices ranging from as less as Rs. 2 to Rs. 30, they are perfect, cute and affordable for all kinds of households. These too are available in multiple shapes sizes and hues and are the perfect ones to give that traditional touch to your home during Deepavali.

Candle lamps: These melt away fast but are available at affordable prices in many beautiful colours and shapes that will make you feel like purchasing them the minute you look at them. Light them in open spaces outside your home or let them float on water in a pond or pot filled with flower petals. You surely will fall in love with the splendour they exude. You can find the Diwali lamp shades and lanterns for reasonable rates at various shops in the city’s  markets and many other shops in most of the residential localities.