Draw the Bowl

Start with a shallow curved shape. Think of it as a small bowl with a wider opening and a slightly rounded bottom.

Don’t make the sides too complicated. A smooth curve is enough.

Add the Wick

Draw a short line coming upward from the center of the bowl. This represents the wick.

Try to keep it centered because the position of the wick will determine where your flame sits.

Draw the Flame

Create two curved lines that meet at a soft point at the top. You can make the flame narrow or slightly wider depending on the size of your diya.

Add Details

Once the basic diya is finished, add small dots, curved lines, flowers, leaves, or geometric shapes around it.

Add Color

Fill the bowl with one color and use another color for the flame. A contrasting outline can make the diya stand out.

Don’t worry if your first attempt isn’t perfectly symmetrical. Even when I was learning as a child, keeping the powder inside the lines was harder than it looked.

Practice Five Bowls

Start by drawing five simple bowls and focus on getting their curves and proportions comfortable.

Practice Five Flames

Draw five flames separately and experiment with their width, curves, and pointed tops.

Combine the Shapes

Combine the bowl, wick, and flame into a complete diya.

Add Decorations

Once the basic shape feels natural, add dots and petals around it.