This Diwali, the city of Ayodhya celebrated its inaugural Deepotsav since the installation of Ram Lalla in the newly constructed Ram Mandir, lighting up the night sky with an impressive display of over 25 lakh diyas (earthen lamps). The event, which took place on the banks of the Saryu River, not only filled the air with festive cheer but also set two Guinness World Records: one for the largest display of oil lamps and another for the most people performing ‘aarti’ simultaneously.
The monumental celebration unfolded across 55 ghats, including the renowned Ram ki Paidi, where a staggering 2,512,585 diyas were illuminated. The counting of the lamps was aided by drone technology, ensuring an accurate tally for the record. The event saw participation from 1,121 ‘vedacharyas’, who performed the ‘aarti’ in unison, creating a mesmerizing spiritual atmosphere.
In a celebratory post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Guinness World Records congratulated Ayodhya, stating, “New record: Largest display of oil lamps 2,512,585 in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India #happydiwali.” In a subsequent announcement, they noted the establishment of the record for the most people performing diya rotations simultaneously, with 1,211 participants involved.
The vibrant display was orchestrated by more than 30,000 volunteers, primarily college students, who meticulously arranged the diyas in rows, contributing to the breathtaking aerial view captured during the event. QR codes facilitated entry for participants, and stewards ensured synchrony among performers during the attempts.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath received the official Guinness World Records certificate, marking a historic achievement for the city. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the event as “amazing, incomparable and unimaginable,” extending his congratulations to the people of Ayodhya. In an online post, he expressed his hope that this “Jyotiparva” at the holy birthplace of Ram Lalla would instill new enthusiasm and energy among families across the nation.
The Deepotsav not only highlighted Ayodhya’s spiritual significance but also showcased its rich cultural tapestry, featuring performances by artists from six countries, including Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia. Additionally, a Ram Leela presentation from Uttarakhand captivated the audience, further enriching the festive atmosphere.
As Ayodhya glowed with the light of millions of diyas, it underscored the city’s cultural heritage and its pivotal role in celebrating the essence of Diwali, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed the grand festivities.
Sources By Agencies
