
Image Credit : This Decor is inspired by Svvyam ( Pintrest ) Do Checkout thier work, they make amazing Pooja Rooms
DIY Gopuram Ganpati Backdrop β Temple Style Decoration
Ganesh Chaturthi is that time of the year when every home turns into a space of devotion, creativity, and celebration. While Bappa brings happiness and blessings, itβs our decorations that add soul to the festival. This year, why not give your Ganpati mandap a traditional South Indian temple feel with a Gopuram backdrop?
What is a Gopuram?
A Gopuram is the tall, ornate tower at the entrance of South Indian temples. They are beautifully sculpted and symbolise the divine gateway to the temple. Bringing this element into your Ganpati dΓ©cor instantly adds a majestic, sacred, and traditional touch.
Inspired by these temple towers, I have created a DIY printable template that makes it easy for anyone to recreate a Gopuram backdrop at home.
Materials Youβll Need
- Gopuram template (printable β provided here)
- Thick cardboard or MDF board (for the base)
- Scissors / Cutter
- Glue (Fevicol / Flex Bond)
- Golden paper / paint (optional for finishing)
- Decorative add-ons β pillars, miniature temple sculptures, bells, flowers, diyas, glitter paper, kundan stones, etc.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Print the Template
Download and print the Gopuram template. The design is already proportioned, so you donβt need to measure or draw anything.
Step 2: Cut & Paste on Cardboard
Stick the printed design onto cardboard or a stiff base. This will make your backdrop durable and help it stand straight.
Step 3: Assemble the Gopuram
Cut out the pieces carefully and start layering them from bottom to top. Align the sections neatly so it forms the tall Gopuram tower.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Now comes the most creative part β decoration! Depending on your style, you can choose between two looks:
- Golden Gopuram Look β Paint the entire structure in metallic gold for a majestic, elegant, and divine temple vibe. This works beautifully if you want a grand yet minimal backdrop.
- Colorful Temple Look (Inspired by Meenakshi Temple) β Use multiple bright shades (reds, blues, greens, yellows, and pinks) to paint different sections of the Gopuram. This gives your decoration a festive, vibrant, and traditional South Indian temple appearance.
Other ways to enhance your backdrop:
- Add miniature pillars on both sides
- Place small sculptures or guardian motifs
- Decorate with kundan stones, glitter paper, and mirrors
- Add bells, flowers, or torans for extra festive charm
Step 5: Place Behind Ganpati
Fix the completed Gopuram backdrop behind your Ganpati idol. Add some traditional brass lamps, garlands, or rangoli to complete the look.
Styling Ideas
- Minimalist Look β Keep it simple with just the Gopuram cut-out in golden or white.
- Grand Temple Look β Enhance the backdrop by adding side pillars, temple sculptures, and traditional brass diyas. This will make it look like a real temple entrance.
- Eco-Friendly Touch β Use recycled cardboard, brown paper, and natural flowers for a sustainable decoration.
Why This DIY Backdrop Works
β Easy β No complex tools needed, just print, cut, and paste.
β Budget-Friendly β Most materials are easily available at home.
β Customizable β Decorate it as simple or as grand as you want.
β Traditional β Brings the charm of South Indian temple architecture into your home.
β¨ With this DIY Gopuram Ganpati Backdrop, your Ganpati celebrations will not just look divine but also carry the essence of Indian temple culture β all made with your own creativity and effort.
Would you like me to also make a Pinterest-style step-by-step infographic script (short text for each step + image idea), so that you can repurpose this into a pin or Instagram carousel?
Watch this video for structural ideas
Watch this for Intricate design
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