BIHAR, Oct 31: Diwali celebrations are underway in Uttar Pradesh today, following the grand Deepotsav on the banks of Ayodhya’s Saryu River yesterday. Thousands of devotees joined Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and other dignitaries in a display of religious devotion and cultural pride.
Chief Minister Adityanath underscored the unique significance of this Diwali, noting that “this year is special and divine for Ayodhya” as it marks the end of a 500-year wait with Lord Ram’s return to the newly constructed temple. He paid tribute to those who dedicated their lives to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, while Minister Shekhawat reflected on India’s rising global influence, crediting the nation’s swift progress with shifting international perspectives.
As part of the celebration, Shekhawat offered prayers at the Shri Ram Temple and participated in the Saryu Aarti. Ahead of Deepotsav, he also launched a tourism app and released a book authored by Ayodhya’s mayor. The state set a world record by lighting over 25 lakh earthen lamps along 55 ghats of the Saryu, with volunteers filling the city’s streets and homes with light. Themed around the Ramayana, the decorations brought Ayodhya to life.
Another record was achieved with 1,121 young batuks performing a synchronized Aarti on the Saryu ghats. This marks the eighth consecutive Deepotsav celebration since Yogi Adityanath took office and the first since Lord Rama’s consecration at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. A stunning drone and laser show capped off the celebrations, honoring Ayodhya’s rich cultural legacy.
