Ayodhya is set for a historic Diwali celebration, marking the first Festival of Lights since the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in January. Extensive preparations have been made to host thousands of attendees and establish a festive atmosphere throughout the temple town.
Large-Scale Arrangements and Viewing Facilities
Sant Sharan Mishra, the Nodal Officer for the Deepotsav, announced that arrangements at Ayodhya’s ghats are designed to accommodate approximately 5,000–6,000 people, with additional provisions made for larger audiences. To enable more people to partake in the event remotely, around 40 jumbo screens have been set up across the town to broadcast the celebrations live.
Ayodhya Commissioner Gaurav Dayal confirmed, “We have given the final touches to our preparations and will execute it tomorrow.” This year’s Deepotsav aims to set a new Guinness World Record by lighting 25 lakh diyas. To ensure success, 28 lakh diyas have been ordered to allow for any breakages or losses.
Intricate Diya Patterns for the Grand Event
The diyas will be arranged in visually captivating 4x4 square patterns, enhancing the visual appeal across the ghats. Some diyas will also be set in unique symbolic formations, including a prominent swastika shape made from 80,000 diyas on Ghat No. 10, reflecting auspiciousness and cultural symbolism.
Special Aarti on the Saryu River Banks
Adding to the spiritual atmosphere, Ayodhya will host a grand aarti ceremony on the banks of the Saryu River, with around 1,100 participants. The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, will attend the event, partaking in the traditional ritual alongside other dignitaries and attendees.
Cultural Performances by Artists of Many Countries
The Deepotsav will also highlight Ayodhya’s rich cultural heritage, with performances by artists from Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia, fostering a spirit of unity and cultural exchange. To ensure safety for the tens of thousands expected to gather, around 10,000 security personnel, with half in plain clothes, have been strategically deployed across the town.
With these elaborate preparations, Ayodhya’s grand Diwali celebration promises to be a memorable and record-breaking event, honoring the town’s spiritual legacy and the enduring significance of the Festival of Lights.