Ayodhya, October 20: In a spectacular celebration that blended devotion, culture, and national pride, Ayodhya has set a new Guinness World Record by lighting 26.17 lakh earthen lamps (diyas) and conducting a synchronised aarti with 2,128 devotees along the ghats of the Saryu River. The dazzling display illuminated the historic city, marking this year’s Deepotsav as the grandest yet.
A Guinness World Records certificate was officially presented to the organisers, cementing Ayodhya’s growing prominence on the global spiritual and cultural map. The event, attended by thousands of devotees and dignitaries, showcased an awe-inspiring scene of unity and reverence.
Cabinet Minister Anil Rajbhar lauded the achievement as a “proud emblem of India’s cultural heritage.” He said, “The entire nation has embraced this celebration. Deepotsav has acquired a new dimension — record after record is being set. The sight of revered seers participating in the aarti was magnificent. This Deepawali has taken on a new hue, and the country is rejoicing.”
However, the event was not without political undertones. When questioned about Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s remark that the opposition “respects Babar but ignores Lord Ram,” Rajbhar defended the government’s cultural initiatives, stating, “Did any government before 2017 approach Ayodhya’s sanctity with such seriousness? Previous chief ministers avoided visiting Ayodhya, fearing alienation. We cannot expect much from such people. This government stands with the sentiments of Ayodhya’s people.”
Responding to Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav’s criticism of the Deepotsav, Rajbhar dismissed it as a reflection of a “foreign mentality.” “They should focus on their own party and the upcoming Bihar elections. The BJP has nothing to learn from them,” he added.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who presided over the celebrations, also used the occasion to underscore his government’s commitment to Ayodhya’s spiritual legacy, declaring, “They honour Babar and disregard Ram.” His statement drew loud applause from the massive crowd, many of whom viewed the event as a reaffirmation of Ayodhya’s timeless cultural spirit.
Despite the political exchanges, the Deepotsav remained the heart of the celebration — a visual and spiritual spectacle that transformed Ayodhya’s riverfront into a radiant sea of light. With shimmering diyas, rhythmic chants, and collective devotion, the event reinforced Ayodhya’s enduring message of faith, unity, and cultural continuity.
