The word "Thali", meaning plate, is used in the prayer ritual with offerings to god. The offerings may include things that are symbolic to each community.

However, commonly coins, few pieces of jewellery, sweet, fruits, grains, coconut and betel leaves are placed.

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"The tradition of creating puja thali is usually done by the elder woman in the family. It is supposed to be done with utmost devotion and love because this is your offering to the almighty," explains Mrs. Kanakam Iyer, a housewife from Mumbai who has been following the tradition of making a puja thali during festivals.

Source: Art D'Inox

A diwali puja thali can be made in the traditional way. However, if you happen to be running out of time, you can go for the assorted variety of glossy readymade thalis available in various lifestyle stores.

We list out some thali ideas that you can try your hand at this diwali.

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Traditional Thali

A traditional prayer thali differs from community to community. However, commonly thalis made of silver or gold are considered auspicious. If silver or gold seems heavy on your pocket, you can also go for a copper, brass or steel thalis.

Now a traditional thali consists of several holy items such as sandalwood paste, rice paste, prasad (sweets), incense sticks, flowers, fruits, rice, coconut, copper or brass kalash (pot), and betel leaves.

Again, a silver or brass kalash is considered auspicious. In certain parts of India, simple designs such as a vermilion swastika are marked on the kalash. In Gujarati communities, kalash with mirror work is also used.