Ayodhya created history during the grand ‘Deepotsav 2024’ celebrations by setting two Guinness World Records on Wednesday evening. The district administration, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, illuminated the banks of the Saryu River with over 25 lakh diyas (earthen lamps), marking the world’s largest display of oil lamps. Another milestone was achieved with the most people performing ‘diya’ rotation simultaneously.
Officials confirmed that the records were awarded for lighting 2,512,585 diyas and for the mass ‘diya’ rotation event. During the festivities, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath received the Guinness World Record certificates, accompanied by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak.
The vibrant celebrations along the Saryu River included thousands of lamps illuminating the ghats, spectacular laser and light shows, and a sound-and-light presentation narrating episodes from the Ram Leela. A drone show added to the visual splendor, while fireworks lit up the night sky.
This year’s Deepotsav holds special significance as it is the first since the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Ram Lala at the Ayodhya temple. The five-day festival commemorates Lord Ram’s triumphant return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile. Eighteen elaborate tableaux depicting key moments from Lord Ram’s life were displayed, created by the Information and Tourism Departments.
In a symbolic gesture, CM Yogi Adityanath led a chariot procession carrying artists portraying Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman, reenacting the momentous return of the deity to Ayodhya. Union Minister Shekhawat and Deputy CMs Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya also joined the celebrations.
Addressing the audience, CM Yogi emphasized the resurgence of Sanatan Dharma, using Ayodhya and Kashi as examples of spiritual and cultural renewal. “Ayodhya is shining bright, marking the revival of Sanatan Dharma. Today, the world is witnessing the grandeur of both Ayodhya and Kashi,” he said.
He warned that anyone obstructing development or humanity would face the same fate as Uttar Pradesh’s mafia. “Anyone standing in the way of progress will meet the same end as the mafias we have dealt with,” he said, highlighting the transformation under the double-engine government of Uttar Pradesh.
CM Yogi also reminisced about the early Deepotsav celebrations eight years ago, recalling the crowd chanting, “Yogi ji, ek kaam karo, mandir ka nirman karo”. He assured them then that the diyas they lit symbolized faith, saying, “Trust in Lord Ram’s blessings—Sanatan Dharma will prevail.” During the event, CM Yogi launched a new tourism app and unveiled a book written by Ayodhya’s Mayor.
(Inputs from ANI)