The diya is at the centre of every aarti, so what you fill it with matters, both for tradition and for safety. Here is a plain comparison.
Ghee
Pure ghee, preferably from cow’s milk, is considered sattvic and is the traditional choice for daily aarti, havan and most deity worship. It burns with a soft, steady flame and gives a gentle aroma. It is more expensive and can solidify in cold weather, so keep it slightly warm or melted.
Sesame (til) oil
Sesame oil is widely used in South India and is the traditional offering for Shani Dev and for lamps lit for ancestors. If you sing Shani Dev Aarti, a sesame or mustard oil diya is customary.
Mustard oil
Common in North India, especially in evening lamps outside the home. It burns well but has a strong smell and can leave soot.
Coconut oil
Popular in Kerala and coastal regions, it gives a bright, clean flame and is easy to find.
Which one should you pick?
| Situation | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Daily aarti at home | Ghee or sesame oil |
| Shani or ancestor lamp | Sesame or mustard oil |
| Festival with many diyas | Mix of ghee for the main diya and oil for others |
| Tight budget | Any clean vegetable oil is acceptable |
Your family tradition should lead. If your elders use a particular oil, continue with it.
Making wicks
Take a small piece of clean cotton, roll it between your fingers into a cone, and dip it in the ghee or oil. Use a thin wick for a calm flame. For a five-wick lamp, make five wicks of equal size.
Safety tips
- Place the diya on a steady, non-flammable plate or thali.
- Keep curtains, clothes and dupattas away from the flame.
- Never leave a lit diya unattended, especially around children and pets.
- Let the diya cool before cleaning it.
- Ventilate the room. A small amount of smoke is normal, but too much indicates a wick that is too thick.
Once you have chosen your diya, follow the steps in our guide to performing aarti at home.
Frequently asked questions
Is ghee or oil better for a puja diya?
Both are acceptable. Ghee is traditional for daily aarti and for most deities. Sesame or mustard oil is traditional for Shani. Choose what suits your family custom and budget.
Can I use refined oil in a diya?
It burns, but many people prefer sesame, mustard, coconut or ghee for puja. Refined vegetable oil is a practical fallback.
How do I make a cotton wick?
Roll a small piece of cotton between your fingers into a thin cone or twisted strip, dip it in ghee or oil, and place it in the diya with the tip out.