Ayodhya celebrates grand 'Deepotsav' with UP CM Yogi leading festivities
Oct 30, 2024
Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 30 : Ayodhya celebrated 'Deepotsav-2024' with grandeur on Wednesday evening, marking a special occasion for thousands of people gathered along the banks of the Sarayu River.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations, pulling a chariot carrying artists portraying Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman, symbolising Lord Ram's return to Ayodhya. 
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with Deputy CMs Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya, was also present during the celebrations.
They welcomed the artists by applying 'tilak' on their foreheads. 
In addition, flowers were showered from a helicopter on the artists enacting the roles of Lord Ram, Lakshman, and Sita.
A large number of people gathered along the banks of the Sarayu River for the grand Deepotsav celebration, where 25 lakh diyas illuminated the ghats. 
Speaking about the Deepotsav, Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya noted that there is a wave of happiness among the devotees of Lord Ram.
"This is the first Deepotsav after the Pran Pratishtha programme of Lord Ram. There is a wave of happiness among the devotees. A world record is going to be created again," he said.
Around 25 lakh diyas were placed and lit along the banks of the Saryu River, creating a breathtaking spectacle, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and fostering a spirit of unity. 
This year's Deepotsav featured 18 vibrant tableaux depicting key moments from Lord Ram's life, crafted by the state's Information and Tourism Departments.
Deepotsav, a five-day festival commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. The event showcases Ayodhya's cultural and spiritual significance, attracting millions of devotees and tourists.
