Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 30 (HBTV): Ayodhya celebrated 'Deepotsav-2024' with grandeur on Wednesday evening, marking a special occasion for thousands gathered along the banks of the Sarayu River.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations, pulling a chariot carrying artists portraying Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman, symbolising Lord Ram's return to Ayodhya. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with Deputy CMs Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya, was also present. They welcomed the artists by applying 'tilak' on their foreheads.

Additionally, flowers were showered from a helicopter onto the artists enacting the roles of Lord Ram, Lakshman, and Sita. A large crowd gathered along the Sarayu River for the grand Deepotsav celebration, where 2.5 million diyas illuminated the ghats.

Speaking about the Deepotsav, Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya noted the joy among Lord Ram's devotees. "This is the first Deepotsav after the Pran Pratishtha programme of Lord Ram. There is a wave of happiness among the devotees. A world record is going to be created again," he said. Around 2.5 million diyas were placed and lit along the banks of the Sarayu River, creating a breathtaking spectacle that symbolised the triumph of light over darkness and fostered a spirit of unity.

This year's Deepotsav featured 18 vibrant tableaux depicting key moments from Lord Ram's life, crafted by the state's Information and Tourism Departments. Deepotsav, a five-day festival, commemorates Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. The event showcases Ayodhya's cultural and spiritual significance, attracting millions of devotees and tourists.   

(ANI)