New Delhi: The grand Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, witnessed the lighting of over 25 lakh earthen lamps, setting a new world record. The diyas were lit along the banks of the Sarayu River. This new world record was achieved during the eighth annual Deepotsav, held on Wednesday.
Here are five key reasons why this year’s Deepotsav is special:
Record-breaking celebration
This year, Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record by lighting over 25 lakh earthen lamps along the banks of the Sarayu River. The sight of the thousands of flickering diyas created a stunning golden glow, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and attracting international attention to the festivities.
First Deepotsav after Ram Mandir consecration
This Deepotsav was the first celebration following the consecration of the Ram Lalla temple on January 22, 2024. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath led the festivities, marking this occasion with grand ceremonies and rituals, reinforcing the cultural and religious significance of the event.
Diverse cultural showcases
The event featured performances by artists from six countries, including Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia, highlighting the multicultural essence of the celebrations. Additionally, traditional performances such as Ram Leela from Uttarakhand added to the rich tapestry of cultural expressions showcased during the festivities.
Spectacular tableaux
The Deepotsav featured 36 exquisite tableaux that illustrated key episodes from Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas. Crafted by Saket Mahavidyalaya, the Information Department, and the Tourism Department, these tableaux depicted significant scenes from the Ramayana, such as Lord Ram’s coronation and the Putrayeshti Yagna, captivating the audience and immersing them in the narrative of Lord Ram’s life.
Community and spiritual unity
The Deepotsav brought together thousands of participants, showcasing unity and community spirit among the people of Ayodhya. The hashtag ‘Sabka_Utsav_Ayodhya_Deepotsav’ trended on social media, symbolising the collective joy and devotion of the participants. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by the music dedicated to Lord Ram, resonating throughout the town and creating a sense of shared celebration.
