This year, Ayodhya is set to break yet another world record during its grand Diwali celebrations. The city will light 25 lakh diyas (earthen lamps) simultaneously on the banks of the Saryu River at Ram Ki Paidi, and an additional 10 lakh diyas will illuminate other areas of Ayodhya, bringing the total to a staggering 35 lakh
The celebrations will feature the presence of Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who will perform rituals in honor of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshman. Additionally, a symbolic coronation ceremony of Lord Ram will be conducted, marking the spiritual and cultural significance of the event.
In 2018, 3.01 lakh diyas were lit, followed by 4.04 lakh in 2019, 6.06 lakh in 2020, 9.41 lakh in 2021, 15.76 lakh in 2022, and 22.23 lakh in 2023, setting new records each year.
Tourism Officer Rajendra Prasad Yadav stated that this year, a world record will once again be set by lighting 35 lakh diyas during the Deepotsav celebrations. Besides, a record will be set for the Maha Aarti of the Saryu river where 1100 people will perform aarti.
“The department has completed all necessary preparations for the event. The selection of participants for the aarti has almost been finalized, with names being chosen in collaboration with prominent saints and mahants, as well as some schools and respected members of the community,” the official told this reporter.
The tourism officer further mentioned that those performing the aarti will have a prescribed dress code, which is still under discussion. However, there is a strong consideration for yellow and saffron-colored attire.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh during a review meeting on the preparations for the Diwali festival mentioned that the Tourism and Culture Department, in coordination with local authorities, will host cultural programs from October 28 to 30 at various locations in Ayodhya, showcasing episodes from the Ramayana. Both Indian and international artists will perform, enhancing the cultural richness of the festivities.
As part of the celebration, ten large cultural stages are being constructed to depict scenes reminiscent of the Treta Yuga using advanced technology. The main event will take place on October 30, featuring performances at Ram Path, Ram Katha Park, Ram Ki Paidi, and along the banks of the Saryu River. The highlight will be a mobile procession depicting episodes from the Ramayana, featuring 30 artists. A special helicopter arrival will symbolically recreate Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman's descent at the Ram Katha Park helipad, representing their arrival by the Pushpak Viman.
Minister Jaiveer Singh announced that during the event, the Tourism Department's app and a coffee table book will be launched. The celebrations will also include Ram Leela performances by artists from Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Nepal.
Additionally, 250 local artists will participate in a grand procession featuring traditional folk dances such as Faruwahi, Avadhi Loknritya, Bhamarsia, Tharu, Dewari, Dhobia, Rai, Dhediya, Mayur dance, and various tribal dances.
“The vibrant and culturally rich Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya aim to offer a blend of tradition, spirituality, and international cultural exchange, while setting a new benchmark with the mass lighting of diyas,” the minister said.
