Transforming an Old Cabinet into a Custom Pooja Mandir: DIY Way

Space crunch and clutter are often issues faced by many when it comes to setting up a divine space for worship in our homes. Especially for those living outside India, the challenge of finding a pooja mandir that fits our vision and our homes can seem like a mountain to climb. And while some solutions available in the market may appeal to our senses, they often end up being heavy on the pocket.

When I found myself in a similar spot, with my tiny pooja mandir overflowing with deities and essentials, the search began. The goal? A spacious and organized pooja space that resonates with calmness and divinity. After much thought and several market visits, it finally dawned on me: why not repurpose an existing cabinet into the perfect pooja mandir?

Step-by-Step Guide:

Starting with What I Had

The cabinet at my home, with its see-through glass doors and two drawers at the bottom, seemed promising. Here's what I envisioned and wanted for my perfect pooja mandir:

1. Transparent Doors: I wanted to always have a clear view of the deities.

2. Drawers for Essentials: Space to keep the pooja essentials organized.

3. Power Outlet Access: Festivals mean lights and decorations!

4. Size: The mandir should be spacious enough to be decked up during festivals.

The Transformation Begins

Having decided to work with the existing cabinet, the transformation process was a blend of creativity and functionality:

1. Removing the Glass: The first step was to unscrew and carefully remove the glass from the door. This gave me a clearer vision of what lay ahead.​

2. Wallpaper Magic: I wanted the inside of the cabinet to have a serene and divine ambiance. A quartz-look wallpaper added that touch of elegance and tranquillity.

3. Bells on the Door: To give it that temple-like feel, bells were a must! Every time I open the door now, the sound fills my heart with joy and reverence.

4. Photo Frame Arrangements: Using a drill, I made holes for screws to hold the photo frames of the gods securely.

5. Lighting it Up: The cabinet conveniently had a hole for wire passing. This was perfect for the LED strip lights I had in mind. I added a backlit behind a round wood frame for that radiant glow. The effect was simply mesmerizing.

Final Result:

The result? A custom pooja mandir that is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. The transformation from a simple cabinet to a divine space was indeed a journey worth embarking upon. It saved me from the extensive efforts of building from scratch and also proved to be cost-effective.

For everyone looking for DIY pooja mandir ideas, sometimes, the solution is right there in your home! A little creativity, some patience, and a vision can help you create the perfect space for your deities.