AYODHYA: On the eve of Diwali on Wednesday, the city of Ayodhya transformed into a radiant spectacle for Deepotsav, setting a Guinness World Record by lighting over 25,12,585 diyas. This year’s festival holds special significance as it marks the first Diwali in Ayodhya after the consecration of Lord Ram’s idol on January 22, 2024.
As the evening unfolded, the banks of the Saryu River shimmered with the glow of thousands of lamps, each one symbolising the faith and hope of devotees from across India. The air was filled with the sacred chants of “Ram, Jai Jai Shri Ram,” creating a spiritual ambiance that resonated deeply with all who attended.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and other dignitaries, played a pivotal role in the festivities. The leaders offered prayers to Lord Ram and Maa Janaki, while a helicopter showered flower petals on the assembled crowd as CM Yogi led a grand chariot procession, embodying the spirit of the celebration.
Advertisement
“This Deepotsav is not just a festival; it’s a manifestation of our collective devotion and the culmination of efforts to revive our cultural heritage,” said CM Yogi during his address. He noted the significance of this year’s event, highlighting that it was a reflection of the enduring faith of the people in Lord Ram. The festivities were further enhanced by the unprecedented participation of 1,121 Vedacharyas, who performed the Saryu Aarti, setting a record for the largest such gathering. As they chanted sacred verses, the atmosphere was charged with devotion, making this a moment to remember in Ayodhya’s storied history.
The illumination of over 35 lakh lamps across the city, including 25,12,585 diyas along 55 ghats, was made possible by the dedicated efforts of over 30,000 volunteers from various educational institutions and organisations. They worked tirelessly to prepare and light the lamps, creating an enchanting sight that delighted thousands of visitors.
The city was beautifully adorned, with every temple, street, and home glowing in a dazzling display of lights. Traditional music and dance performances from artists representing diverse cultures added to the festive atmosphere, showcasing the rich heritage of India. A spectacular drone show captivated audiences, with 500 drones illuminating the night sky with stories from the Ramayana. The Deepotsav 2024 not only highlighted the religious significance of the festival but also exemplified Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat’. People from various backgrounds gathered in Ayodhya, lighting lamps as a symbol of their shared faith and unity.
Yogi Adityanath emphasised the growth of the Deepotsav celebration, which began with 1.71 lakh lamps in 2017 and has now reached this remarkable milestone. “Each year, we aim to celebrate the spirit of Lord Ram and foster a sense of community,” he said, concluding his speech with the powerful chant of “Siyavar Ramchandra ki Jai!” In addition to the lighting of lamps, the festival featured an exhibition organised by the State Lalit Kala Academy, showcasing the life of Lord Ram through paintings and sculptures.