Lucknow: Ayodhya shines brighter than ever this Diwali, with a record-breaking 28 lakh diyas lighting up 55 ghats of the sacred Saryu River. Under the 8th annual Deepotsav celebration in the Awadh city, Ayodhya’s Deepotsav entered the global stage once again, surpassing last year’s 22 lakh diyas and setting a new world record. The event marked the first Diwali celebration after the completion of Ram Lalla’s temple, adding profound significance to this year’s festival.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the grand event by lighting the first diya at the newly constructed Ram temple, blessing the festival with a spirit of unity and devotion. The festivities included a mesmerizing Saryu Aarti conducted by 1,600 priests, with thousands of devotees joining in the prayers and chanting on the ghats, creating an atmosphere charged with spirituality and reverence.
In a grand ceremonial welcome, Lord Shri Ram arrived with Sita and Lakshman on a Pushpak Viman, reenacting their legendary return to Ayodhya after victory over Ravana. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally welcomed them, pulling the chariot that carried Lord Ram, who was ceremonially brought to Ram Katha Park, where CM Yogi performed an Aarti and the ceremonial Raj Tilak. Artists dressed as divine characters lined the streets, dancing and singing to greet Lord Ram, while traditional music filled the air, capturing the opulent spirit of Treta Yuga.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also attended the historic event, expressing that the world’s gaze has turned towards India, drawn by the nation’s rapid progress and its growing influence in global culture, tradition, and spirituality. “Today, the knowledge, tradition, yoga, Ayurveda, and culture of India are being embraced worldwide,” Shekhawat stated, emphasizing that Ayodhya’s Deepotsav symbolizes the rebirth of India’s rich heritage and legacy.
Addressing the ecstatic crowd, CM Yogi recounted how the people of Ayodhya had encouraged him in 2017 to “build the temple,” a vision now brought to life. “Today, Ayodhya shines as a beacon of faith and devotion. The world is coming here,” he declared, encapsulating the pride and reverence surrounding the Deepotsav. This year’s Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya truly capture the grandeur and devotion reminiscent of ancient times, making it a memorable occasion for all.
