Ayodhya’s Historic Deepotsav: 25 Lakh Diyas Light Up After Ram Temple Consecration
Ayodhya celebrated its first Deepotsav after the consecration of the Ram temple earlier this year, illuminating the city with over 25 lakh diyas along the River Saryu.
The event set a new Guinness World Record for the number of oil lamps lit simultaneously, marking a momentous occasion in the temple town.
The eighth annual Deepotsav, held on October 30, was led by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who inaugurated the celebration by lighting the initial lamps. The festivities featured laser and drone shows showcasing scenes from the Ramayan, as well as a performance of Ram Leela. Artists from six countries—Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia—also took part in the cultural presentations.
Spectacular Displays and Processions Celebrate Lord Ram’s Life
A notable highlight included 80,000 diyas arranged in the shape of a swastika, symbolizing auspiciousness. In addition, a vibrant procession of Ramayan-themed tableaux moved through Ayodhya’s streets, featuring key events from Lord Ram’s life depicted in scenes from Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas, including Bharat Milaap, Shabri’s devotion, and Ravana’s defeat. Chief Minister Adityanath performed an aarti for the procession and even took part in pulling a chariot carrying actors representing Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman.
Heightened Security and Crowd Management
To ensure safety, 10,000 security personnel were deployed, including 5,000 in plain clothes. Access to Ram Ki Paidi was restricted to pass holders, with 17 key routes temporarily closed. The event concluded with a grand spectacle, reinforcing Ayodhya’s position as a cultural and spiritual beacon, especially following the consecration of the Ram temple.
