COLOURFUL Deepavali decorations are taking centre stage at malls across the Klang Valley ahead of the Festival of Lights on Nov 8.
From regal courtyards and towering peacocks to banana-leaf meals and community-made kolam (traditional South Indian decorative patterns drawn on the ground), each shopping centre expresses its own interpretation of Deepavali traditions.
Peacocks, elephants, flowers and traditional oil lamps (also known as diyas) remain familiar sights, while some malls also draw inspiration from Indian architectural styles, classical textiles and culinary traditions.
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur has turned to the grandeur of royal India for its festive display, with pink palace-inspired structures greeting visitors.
At the main entrance, royal parasols, elephant statues, peacocks and marigold decorations line the walkway.
There is also a rangoli walkway between colourful Rajasthani facades.
At the Spanish Steps, marigolds and rows of hanging lanterns mirror diyas.
Pavilion Bukit Jalil
Among the installations is the “Saree of 1,080 Blessings”, a flowing saree artwork created by UCSI Group students inspired by the significance of the number 108 in Hindu tradition.
Two illuminated elephants welcome visitors at the Spanish Steps, while the “Circle of Light” kolam, made up of layered floral patterns with each petal representing joy and shared happiness, adorns the Piazza Entrance.
One floor below, the “Guardian of Auspicious Light” kolam at the Bukit Jalil Entrance features an elephant surrounded by colourful floral motifs.
The Exchange TRX
The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur showcases a striking large pink peacock and lotus theme at the Central Exchange.
The peacock commands the space, surrounded by ornate flowers, illuminated arches, woven structures and lotus-shaped lamps.
Elsewhere, large kolam creations continue the peacock theme across the concourse, including one depicting a peacock spreading its wings.
The installation also takes advantage of the height of the Central Exchange atrium, with the mall’s towering digital column forming a dramatic backdrop behind the peacock and surrounding decorations.
Sunway Pyramid
An illuminated, two-tiered kolam anchors the Grand Foyer at Sunway Pyramid in Petaling Jaya, where a peacock rises from a bed of colourful faux blooms.
Overhead, decorative hanging lanterns fill the atrium, while a giant lotus crowns the central column.
Sunway Putra Mall
At Sunway Putra Mall in Kuala Lumpur, two decorated elephant statues – one gold and the other pink – stand on either side of the main Deepavali display.
Framing them are lit arches that feature floral patterns and garlands, while lotus-shaped lamps and beds of flowers are placed in front.
IOI City Mall
Over in Putrajaya, a large blue elephant is the focal point of the main festive installation for IOI City Mall.
The elephant, adorned with flower garlands, stands within an expansive kolam featuring eight peacocks.
A large decorative parasol appears to shield the elephant from above, as hanging lanterns and floral columns complete the setting.
IOI Mall Damansara
Peacock motifs are the main focus at IOI Mall Damansara in Petaling Jaya.
A sprawling kolam stretches across the floor, with its detailed artwork visible even from the upper levels.
Perched high on a pedestal at the centre is a large blue peacock with a cascade of floral garlands forming its tail.
KLGCC Mall
KLGCC Mall in Kuala Lumpur keeps its festive installation simple with a pink peacock surrounded by pastel flowers.
A lotus-patterned floor decal and brass diyas complete the garden-inspired setting.
Suria KLCC
Suria KLCC has transformed its Centre Court into an Indian palace courtyard.
A pair of 3m-tall peacocks lead shoppers toward a golden pavilion at the centre of the Kuala Lumpur mall.
Floral arrangements and two kolam creations representing diyas flank the pavilion, while lanterns and a LED screen displaying lotus flowers on a pond complete the regal look.
The Gardens
Culinary heritage shines at The Gardens mall in Kuala Lumpur, where its main kolam pays tribute to a traditional South Indian banana-leaf meal.
Viewed from above, the installation forms a large circular mandala, while a closer look reveals authentic spices and traditional cookware.
The display also depicts a woman preparing a feast over a traditional stove, with claypots and ingredients arranged around her.
Above her, suspended strings of dried chillies and pots of spices continue the grand feast theme, reflecting the role of food and hospitality in South Indian culture.
Mid Valley Megamall
At neighbouring Mid Valley Megamall, a white elephant with its trunk raised, representing the showering of blessings, stands at the centre of a large colourful kolam in the East Entrance Atrium.
Colourful basket-shaped decorations hang above the elephant, alongside floral garlands.
From certain angles, the majestic creature appears to walk into the mall, with a colourful kolam in its wake.
Paradigm Mall
Alongside its central peacock display, Paradigm Mall in Petaling Jaya celebrates community spirit with its “Colours of Unity” theme.
The venue features 46 unique kolam displays, crafted by 77 participants during a recent competition, surrounding the main installation along with a diverse gallery of local designs.
