Ayodhya Glows With 30 Lakh Diyas: CM Yogi Leads 10th Deepotsav
Ayodhya celebrates the 10th Deepotsav with 30 lakh diyas, cultural shows, and a powerful address by CM Yogi Adityanath.
The spiritual heart of India, Ayodhya, transformed into a sea of golden light on Saturday as the city celebrated the 10th edition of Ayodhya Deepotsav 2024. In a breathtaking display of faith and tradition, more than 30 lakh earthen lamps (diyas) were lit across 56 ghats along the banks of the holy Saryu River, creating a spectacle of devotion that illuminated the entire Shri Ayodhya Dham.
A Grand Celebration of Heritage
The festivities were not limited to the lamps. The event showcased the rich spiritual and cultural legacy of the city through a series of elaborate performances. A magnificent light-and-sound show captivated the thousands of devotees who gathered at the riverbanks to witness the grandeur. To bring the timeless epic of the Ramayana to life, artists performed stage enactments depicting pivotal moments from the life of Lord Ram, blending art with spirituality.
Dignitaries Join the Festivities
The 10th Deepotsav saw the presence of several high-profile guests and spiritual leaders. Among those attending were Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath. He highlighted the significance of the Ram temple, describing it as a "monument of our entire Hindu self-respect." He further remarked that Ayodhya has evolved beyond being just a smart or solar city to truly embody its identity as a spiritual capital.
CM Yogi’s Stern Message to Critics
After performing the aarti and worshipping Lord Ram and Goddess Janaki at Ram Katha Park, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed a massive crowd. He reflected on the journey of Ayodhya, contrasting its current cultural renaissance with centuries of struggle.
Recalling the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, the Chief Minister paid tribute to the sacrifices of the saints and kar sevaks. He took a sharp tone against political critics who had previously opposed the movement or suppressed the devotees.
"An airport could never be built in Ayodhya in the past. Today, Ayodhya boasts an international airport named after Maharishi Valmiki," the Chief Minister stated.
CM Adityanath issued a stern warning to those who had historically insulted the movement, stating that anyone who had previously ordered fire or lathi-charges against the devotees of Lord Ram and the saints should only visit Ayodhya after offering a sincere apology and repenting for their past actions.
The Five-Day Diwali Sequence
The Deepotsav is part of a larger five-day celebration marking the festival of lights. The sequence of festivities began on November 6 with Dhanteras, followed by Choti Diwali on November 7. The celebrations continue with the main Lakshmi Puja on November 8, Govardhan Puja on November 9, and conclude with Bhai Dooj on November 10.