Why brass for diyas?
Brass is the traditional metal for lamps in Indian homes and temples. It handles the heat of the flame, does not crack like clay over time, and polishes back to a golden shine after years of use. A good brass diya can be passed down through generations.
Types of brass diyas
| Type | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Aarti diya (single or panchmukhi) | Small lamp with one or five wicks, often with a handle | Daily aarti |
| Akhand diya | Large oil well with a glass chimney | Continuous jyot during Navratri, Diwali, vrats |
| Diya stand (samai / kuthuvilakku) | Tall lamp with a base and tiers | Mandir centrepiece, ceremonies |
| Hanging diya | Lamp with chains | Entrances and temple corners |
| Decorative diyas | Patterned or swastik designs | Festive decor and gifting |
How to choose the right brass diya
- Purpose: daily aarti, continuous jyot, or decor?
- Space: measure your mandir; a tall stand needs headroom.
- Burn time: a bigger oil well means fewer refills.
- Glass cover: essential near fans and windows.
- Base: wide and heavy so it does not tip.
- Solid brass: use our pure brass tests.
Oil, ghee and wicks
Ghee and sesame oil give a clean, steady flame; mustard oil is common in many regions. Use round cotton wicks for aarti diyas and long wicks (akhand batti) for akhand diyas. Our akhand diya guide explains how to keep the jyot burning safely.
Brass diyas from our collection
- Brass Akhand Jyoti Diya: classic akhand lamp with a glass cover.
- Brass Akhand Swastik Diya: auspicious swastik design.
- Brass Akhand Diya: for long pujas and festivals.
- For a silver look, the white metal diya is a light, affordable option.
Regional lamp traditions
| Region | Lamp |
|---|---|
| Kerala | Nilavilakku, a tall brass lamp lit at dusk |
| Tamil Nadu | Kuthuvilakku, with five wicks |
| Maharashtra / Goa | Samai, a tall lamp with a peacock or Ganesha top |
| North India | Akhand jyot and panchmukhi aarti diyas |
| Bengal | Brass pradip and the evening sandhya prodip |
Each form has its own beauty; choose one that matches your family tradition or your mandir's style.
Care so your diya lasts
After each use, wipe out leftover oil once the lamp is cool. Every few weeks, wash with warm soapy water and polish with lemon and salt or a brass powder; see how to clean a brass diya. Always dry fully before refilling.
