PRAGATSHEEL Soil Diya, Pragatsheel SHG, Pack of 1 Piece

A handmade clay (soil) diya from Pragatsheel SHG, sold as a single piece. Clay diyas are the lamps you actually light — they hold oil or ghee and a cotton wick, unlike an akash kandil, which is hung for decoration.

The listing doesn't give the size or shape, so look at the product photos to judge whether it suits your puja thali or a row on the doorstep.

• Before the first lighting: soak the diya in plain water for a few hours, then let it dry completely. Clay is porous, and soaking it first stops it drinking up your oil.
• Filling: til (sesame) oil or ghee with a cotton wick, such as MORAYA phool batti. Don't fill it to the brim.
• Safety: keep lit diyas away from curtains and paper decorations, and out of reach of children and pets.

Choosing between clay, copper and hanging lanterns? Our Diwali buying guide to diyas and akash kandils sets out the differences.