Ayodhya, the spiritual heart of India, witnessed a breathtaking display of light as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the Deepotsav festivities, adorning Ram ki Pairi with an astounding 22.23 lakh diyas. This grand celebration not only set a world record but also marked a glorious fusion of cultural and spiritual exuberance.
On Saturday, the Chief Minister presided over the ‘Aarti’ ceremony, infusing the sacred city with a radiant glow that echoed the fervor of the ongoing Deepotsav celebrations. The highlight of the event was the illumination of 2.2 million earthen lamps, creating a mesmerizing spectacle on the iconic Ram ki Pairi. To add to the enchantment, a captivating light-and-sound show awaited the evening revelers.
Earlier in the day, a vibrant procession unfolded in Uttar Pradesh, featuring eighteen tableaux that depicted scenes from the Ramayana, the Ramcharitmanas, and addressed various social issues. Inaugurated by the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh, the procession weaved through the city, culminating at the Ram Katha Park. The tableaux, crafted by the state’s tourism and information departments, highlighted themes such as children’s rights, women’s safety, self-reliance, environmental protection, and science and technology, showcasing government initiatives.
The floats, inspired by the Ramcharitmanas and the Ram Katha, brought to life iconic scenes like the Shabari-Ram Milap and the Lanka Dahan. Folk artists and performers from across India, not just Uttar Pradesh, graced the procession with captivating performances, drawing spectators from all corners of Ayodhya.
The Deepotsav celebrations, initiated by the Yogi Adityanath government in 2017 with 51,000 diyas, have consistently grown in scale and spectacle. From 4.10 lakh diyas in 2019 to over 17 lakh in 2022, the event has not only become a symbol of cultural richness but has also earned its place in the Guinness World Records. In 2021, the lighting of more than 9 lakh diyas set a new record, and the tradition continues to shine brighter each year.
As Ayodhya basks in the glow of millions of diyas, the Deepotsav celebration stands as a testament to the cultural and spiritual unity that defines the essence of India.
