The city of Ayodhya is abuzz with joy, evoking the divine splendor of Treta Yuga, as it prepares to celebrate a historic Diwali - its first since child Ram (Ramlalla) was ceremoniously enshrined in the grand temple after 500 years.
The city, which holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, mirrors the jubilance of the day when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. Today, the festivities center around the child Ram, and for the next three days, Ayodhya will glow with joy, attracting devotees from across India to witness this unparalleled celebration.
Ayodhya’s grand Diwali celebration kicks off with a world record attempt, illuminating Ram Ki Paidi with 25 lakh earthen lamps on Chhoti Deepawali. Accompanying this spectacular display will be a laser show, projection mapping, and a grand fireworks display, transforming the cityscape into a visual feast.
The Deepotsav festivities are further enhanced by the active participation of residents and pilgrims. The streets and landmarks of Ayodhya are adorned with vibrant decorations. The area from Ram Katha Park to Saket College, the Saryu Ghats, and Ram Ki Paidi is a visual treat, and the Ram Mandir itself is being adorned with 50 quintals of fresh flowers. Grand Toran gates have been constructed at all four entrances of the temple, adding to the festive aura.
A special highlight of the celebrations is the Ram Darbar, set up in Ram Katha Park, where Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will assume the role of Guru Vashishtha to symbolically coronate Lord Ram. As evening approaches, crowds of devotees and visitors are gathering to admire the city’s grand decorations, capturing each stunning view with their cameras.
Adding a touch of modernity to this traditional festival, a high-tech exhibition is being set up on a specially built stage at Ram Katha Park. Nine other stages have been erected at locations such as Guptarghat, Badi Devkali, Nayaghat, and Bharatkund. Nearly 900 folk artists from across the country will perform traditional music and dance on these stages, bringing the cultural diversity of India to Ayodhya.
Additionally, Ramlila artists from six countries - including Sri Lanka, Nepal, Trinidad, and Laos - will stage performances for next three days from 5 pm to 9 pm at Ram Katha Park and Ram Ki Paidi, adding an international flavor to the event.
The spiritual leaders of Ayodhya are filled with a sense of divine joy this Diwali, as they believe that the celebrations are reminiscent of an era when Lord Ram walked the earth. Ayodhya has been adorned with flowers and dazzling lights, with a unique pride surrounding the construction of the grand temple and the installation of Ramlala.
Mahant Vivek Acharya said: “This time, there is joy in Ayodhya due to the grand temple and the Pran Pratishtha of Ramlala. Monasteries and temples will also join in this celebration, lighting up with lamps.â€
Reflecting on the decorations and the atmosphere in Ayodhya, Jagadguru Swami Ramdinesh Acharya said, “This is truly Balram’s Diwali. The beautifully decorated city evokes memories of the night when Lord Ram returned, making it feel as if that scene has come alive once again. Every home, street, and corner is adorned to welcome Ram. The consecration of Ramlala symbolizes the upholding of Indian cultural values.â€
With the participation of residents, saints, and leaders, Ayodhya’s Deepotsav promises to be a spectacle like no other-a celebration that not only commemorates a historic moment but also revives the spirit of an ancient era, making the divine presence of Lord Ram feel real once more.
