Wed Oct 30 15:40:45 UTC 2024: ## Ayodhya Celebrates Grand Deepotsav, Aims to Break Guinness World Record
Ayodhya, the holy city of Lord Rama, lit up with millions of diyas on Wednesday, October 30th, as it celebrated the first Deepotsav after the consecration ceremony at the Ram Mandir in January. The grand festival, aimed at surpassing last year’s Guinness World Record, saw the illumination of over 28 lakh diyas along the banks of the sacred Saryu River.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, participated in the ceremony, lighting diyas at the Ram Janmbhoomi temple premises. This marks the eighth Deepotsav under CM Adityanath’s rule.
A vibrant procession depicting characters from the Ramayana, featuring a helicopter carrying Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, and others, made its way through the temple city. The procession was welcomed by CM Adityanath, Deputy CMs Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya. The procession culminated with CM Adityanath performing the Aarti of Lord Ram’s chariot, which was pulled to the Ram Darbar site.
The festival was a sight to behold, with classical dancers from across India performing on the Ram Path, showcasing scenes from the Ramayana.
Addressing the crowd before the festival, CM Adityanath emphasized the achievement of the double engine (central and state) government in building the Ram Mandir and stated that the city of Ayodhya now needs to prove itself.
“This year is remarkable, unique, and divine for Ayodhya. After 500 years, Ram Lalla has returned to his abode, sending a message to the world to never deviate from their path,” CM Adityanath said. He also honored the saints who dedicated their lives to the Ram Janmbhoomi movement, stating that their sacrifices have finally come to fruition.
The festival, coinciding with the small Diwali celebration, included a laser and light show on the Saryu Ghat, narrating the story of Ram Leela. The event also saw the setting up of large LED screens to broadcast the event for those unable to attend.
First Piper 