1. Ayodhya celebrated its seventh ‘Deepotsav’ organized by the Uttar Pradesh government.
2. The grand procession featured 18 tableaux depicting the life of Lord Ram, starting from Udaya Square.
3. Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh flagged off the procession that culminated at Ram Katha Park.
Ayodhya, Nov 11: Ayodhya witnessed a spectacular celebration of its seventh ‘Deepotsav’ or Diwali, organized by the Uttar Pradesh government. The festivities kicked off with an elaborate procession featuring 18 magnificent tableaux portraying the life of Lord Ram. Starting from Udaya Square, the procession traversed to Ram Katha Park, flagged off by Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh.
Artists from various states utilized this grand event to express their deep faith, with the under-construction Ram Temple adorned for the occasion. Devotees flocked to Ram Janamabhoomi to offer prayers to Lord Ram. The festival, resonating with the spirit of “Tretayug” when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after triumphing over Lanka, saw the city adorned reminiscent of that jubilant era.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel actively participated in pulling a chariot symbolizing Lord Ram’s legendary return, setting a vibrant tone for the celebration. A remarkable moment unfolded as over 22 lakh traditional earthen lamps, or diyas, were simultaneously lit at 51 ghats along the Saryu river, marking a world record.
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As part of the festivities, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Path was adorned with a variety of flowers, creating a mesmerizing ambience for Deepotsav. Over 25,000 volunteers from Avadh University and the Ayodhya district administration joined forces to light the diyas simultaneously, aiming to establish a world record. A team from the Guinness Book of World Records was present, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath received a certificate acknowledging the achievement.
Adding to the cultural diversity, 48 tribals from Pakur, making a barefoot journey, arrived at Lord Ram’s birthplace to partake in the festivities. This group, residing in the mountainous region, was sent by The Jharkhand Pradesh Shri Ram Janaki Charitable Service Trust.
This grand festival of lights, initiated after the formation of the BJP government in 2017, has become a tradition in Ayodhya, setting records and attracting widespread participation. Last year, in 2022, a Guinness world record was established with 15.76 lakh lamps lit at Ram ki Pauri. The event holds special significance, with even Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating in the celebrations in the previous year.
