Diwali Flower Garland Workshop

Come and join us in celebrating and learning about Diwali in this colourful and nature-inspired workshop.Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant festivals in Hindu culture, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and by Hindu communities worldwide, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after a 14-year exile and victory over the demon king Ravana. Homes and streets are adorned with colourful lights, oil lamps, and decorations, and flower garlands play an essential role in the festivities, used to honour deities, welcome guests, and bring joy and beauty into homes. In this workshop, we celebrate the spirit of Diwali by crafting vibrant flower garlands that represent the festival's themes of renewal, prosperity, and happiness.** Please note the fresh flowers will be a mixture of Australian Natives and other flora depending on what seasonal flowers Sujata is able to get.Come and learn the beautiful art of fresh flower garland making with Sujata, originally from Mumbai, India."My name is Sujata Pillai, and I am a chef and florist. I was born in Mumbai, India, where my childhood memories are filled with the fragrance of flowers, especially watching my mother braid fresh flowers into her hair every day. In our culture, flowers are an integral part of life, used to celebrate festivals, decorate homes, and offer prayers to the gods. When I moved to Australia, my love for flowers inspired me to pursue a career in floristry. I am passionate about sharing my experience and teaching others how to design and create beautiful flower garlands that reflect the rich traditions I grew up with." SujataOutline of workshop:

• In this 2-hour workshop, participants will learn the art of making traditional Indian flower garlands, a cultural practise that has been passed down for centuries. Flower garlands are used in temples, for hair decoration, and in cultural celebrations across India, symbolising love, prosperity, respect, beauty, and worship.
• Participants will be guided through both traditional knotting techniques and a quicker needle-and-thread method, adding decorative elements along the way. The practise is meditative and connects deeply with cultural traditions.

By the end of the workshop, participants will create a beautiful hair decoration called a gajra, as well as a long decorative garland made with fresh, seasonal Australian flowers. They will also explore the cultural significance of garlands and discover how to apply their new skills to create headbands, floral ropes, or thoughtful gifts for festive seasons. This workshop offers a meaningful way to bring the beauty of Indian cultural practices into the home.

This workshop is perfect for all skill levels.
 

• A greater learning and understanding of Diwali, the 'Festival of Lights'
• A traditional Indian 'Gajra' fresh flower hair decoration
• A traditional Indian long fresh flower garland

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