In Graphics | From Japanese tea houses to Diwali decorations, the story behind tea lights

Those tiny little candles in metal cups, creating a cozy glow, are just perfect for a romantic dinner, a soothing bath, a peaceful meditation session, and Diwali decorations. For generations, the modest tea light was the candle equivalent of seen and not heard. But things started to change in the late 20th Century when decorative candles became popular and found their way into the homes of almost everyone. They also have numerous advantages. They are easy to clean, you can toss them away once they are burnt, the range of colours, shapes, and designs fits in with each occasion, and finally, as New York trend maven Faith Popcorn says, they are the ideal alternative to technology. But, have you ever wondered where tealights came from, who named them, and how they became so popular? Here is everything you need to know.

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