Games, contests and moments that make the two nights memorable
Marigold and rose strings draped over the entrance. Add mango leaves (toran) for authenticity — a perfect photo backdrop.
Criss-cross warm white fairy lights overhead with terracotta diyas on the floor border. Magical evening ambience.
Large floor rangoli at the dance floor centre. Use coloured rice powder — a great community activity for kids.
Deep red or saffron fabric draped behind the idol. Layer with golden fabric and pin fresh flowers.
Red, orange and yellow paper lanterns at varying heights. Cheap, festive, great colour overhead.
Selfie spot with a banner, props (dandiya sticks, dupatta, bindi cutouts) and a QR to a shared photo album.
A Karnataka touch alongside the Gujarati marigold strings — orange kanakambara and jasmine (mallige) garlands framing the stage and idol, just like Mysuru Dasara décor.
Five titles across the two nights — King, Queen, Couple, Prince and Princess — picked by a panel of judges. A winner can't be repeated across the two days, so more people get their moment. Come in ethnic wear!
A separate early slot just for the little ones to play garba, followed by a photoshoot. Every child gets a stationery gift.
Friendly garba rounds where kids, adults and seniors all dance together while the judges look for the Royalty winners. Record with a phone + tripod for a treasured memory.
Buy plain terracotta diyas and fabric paint. Kids paint and take them home; display them all during the event.
A backdrop + a mini instant photo printer — guests walk away with a physical print same evening, not just a digital memory.
On the final evening, place diyas along all corridors and stairs. Everyone steps out together for a 5-minute lighting ceremony.
Printed / WhatsApp schedule for both evenings with time slots, activity, dress colour, and who's leading.
Small goody bags (chocolate, craft, sticker) for all children on the final day.
Make Day 2 the big night — best food, loudest Dakla set, longest non-stop garba, group photo, and prize distribution back to back.