Ayodhya Glows with 30 Lakh Lamps: CM Yogi Recalls 'Treta Yuga' Splendour at 10th Deepotsav
CM Yogi Adityanath leads the 10th Deepotsav in Ayodhya with 30 lakh lamps, recalling the struggle for Ram Janmabhoomi and the city's rebirth.
The sacred city of Ayodhya transformed into a celestial landscape as it hosted the 10th edition of the mega Ayodhya Deepotsav celebrations. In a breathtaking display of faith and light, over 30 lakh earthen lamps (diyas) were illuminated along the banks of the Saryu River, evoking the spiritual radiance of the Treta Yuga.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel led the festivities, welcoming Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, along with a gathering of saints and prominent dignitaries. The evening commenced with a grand aarti and worship of Lord Ram and Goddess Janaki, setting a divine tone for the landmark event.
A Journey from Struggle to Renaissance
Addressing a massive crowd at Ram Katha Park, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath spoke emotionally about the transformation of Ayodhya. He contrasted the city's current glory with the decades of hardship endured during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
Reflecting on the sacrifices of kar sevaks and saints, the Chief Minister issued a stern message to those who had previously opposed the movement. He pointed out that while an airport was once an impossible dream for the city, Ayodhya now boasts an international airport named after Maharishi Valmiki.
"Those who once neglected and insulted us, who opened fire on the devotees of Lord Ram, and who humiliated and lathi-charged the saints—if they ever visit Ayodhya, they must come only after offering an apology," CM Adityanath declared.
Reclaiming the Glory of Ram Lalla
The Chief Minister traced the city's rebirth to the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) of Ram Lalla, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He recalled the 500-year period of subjugation under foreign invaders, noting that many had doubted if Ram Lalla would ever be enshrined in Ayodhya again.
He emphasized that the city, which once saw the mere mention of "Shri Ram" treated as a sin and witnessed state-led violence against devotees, has now reclaimed its rightful place. Under the current leadership, he stated, Ayodhya has come alive once more, mirroring the divine era of the Treta Yuga.
Economic Prosperity and National Identity
Governor Anandiben Patel, speaking on the Saryu banks, highlighted that the development of Ayodhya is not just spiritual but also economic. She described "Ram" as more than a name, calling him the soul of India and the foundation of the nation's consciousness.
The Governor noted that the vision of Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has opened new doors for the local population. The surge in pilgrims and tourists has created vast employment opportunities in several sectors, including:
- Hospitality and guesthouses
- Transport and food services
- Handicrafts and local products
- Floral offerings and worship materials
Distinguished Guests
The event was graced by Vice President CP Radhakrishnan as the Chief Guest. In a moment of personal tribute, CM Adityanath praised the Vice President's inspiring journey, noting his rise from a humble farming family in Tamil Nadu to holding the second-highest constitutional office in India. Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak was also present to mark the occasion.