Thu Oct 31 11:07:24 UTC 2024: ## Ayodhya’s Deepotsav 2024 Breaks Records and Celebrates Ramayana’s Legacy
Ayodhya, the city believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, witnessed a grand celebration of Deepotsav this year, marking the return of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana after their 14-year exile. The festival, which commemorates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, was particularly special this year as it was the first Deepotsav since the consecration of the Ram Mandir.
The city was transformed into a spectacle of lights, with millions of earthen lamps (diyas) illuminating every corner. This year’s Deepotsav set a new Guinness World Record with a staggering 25,12,585 diyas lit on Ram ki Paidi and 54 ghats along the Saryu River, surpassing the previous record of 22.23 lakh diyas set in 2023.
The celebrations were not just about the lights. The event featured a mesmerizing laser and drone show depicting scenes from the Ramayana, captivating audiences with its grandeur. Cultural performances by artists from six countries including Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia added a global touch to the festivities.
Further solidifying Ayodhya’s place in the record books, the Uttar Pradesh Department of Tourism orchestrated a simultaneous aarti by 1,121 people on the banks of the Saryu River, securing another Guinness World Record.
The festival was a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ramayana and its enduring relevance in modern times. Ministers and dignitaries, including Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, graced the occasion, underscoring the cultural significance of the event.
The Deepotsav in Ayodhya served as a powerful reminder of the power of faith, tradition, and the triumph of light over darkness.
First Piper 