India

Ayodhya Illuminated by 30 Lakh Lamps as Deepotsav Celebrates Lord Ram’s Return

By Rajeev Singh

Ayodhya was illuminated by millions of earthen lamps on Saturday as the city marked the 10th edition of its Deepotsav festival along the Saryu River. Hundreds of thousands of diyas lit Ram Ki Paidi ghat, and more than 30 lakh lamps were set to light 56 ghats along the river, turning the temple town into a sea of light. The annual celebration commemorates the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, recreating the traditional welcome believed to have been given to him in the Treta Yuga. The event was attended by Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with saints and other dignitaries. Earlier in the evening, Adityanath and Patel welcomed the Vice President to Ayodhya. The dignitaries participated in prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Ram and Goddess Janaki before the chief minister addressed a gathering at Ram Katha Park. Adityanath described the festival as a symbol of Ayodhya’s transformation, recalling the long struggle surrounding the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and the sacrifices made by kar sevaks and saints. He also highlighted the city’s development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pointing to the inauguration of the Ram temple and the expansion of infrastructure, including the international airport named after Maharishi Valmiki. The chief minister also criticised political leaders who had opposed the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, saying they should apologise to devotees and saints for their past actions. Governor Patel noted that Ayodhya’s growing popularity as a pilgrimage and tourist destination is creating economic opportunities for local residents, with increased employment in hospitality, transport, food services, handicrafts, flower offerings and other local businesses. Vice President Radhakrishnan was the chief guest at the celebrations. Adityanath welcomed him and praised his journey from a farming family in Tamil Nadu to one of the country’s highest constitutional offices. Ahead of the main programme, the chief minister visited an exhibition showcasing Ayodhya’s 500‑year history, the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and the city’s recent infrastructure development. Thousands of volunteers arranged the lamps along the riverfront. More than 2,500 police personnel, along with specialised security teams, were deployed to manage crowds and ensure security during the celebrations.