Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 31 (HBTV): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Thursday that this year's Diwali is special as it is the first since "Lord Ram has returned to his temple" in Ayodhya.

"Today is the auspicious occasion of Diwali. My Diwali greetings to everyone. This Diwali is special as, after 500 years, Lord Ram has returned to his temple. Ayodhya’s Diwali is especially meaningful this year," Adityanath told reporters after visiting the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya and offering prayers there.

The 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya’s temple was held on January 22, 2024.

Earlier in the day, while addressing a public gathering in Ayodhya, the Chief Minister said that the Deepotsav celebration in the Ram temple on Wednesday was the best example of how a society can come together to celebrate a festival.

"First of all, I heartily congratulate you and the people of the entire state on Deepawali. I hope this Deepawali brings joy, happiness, and prosperity to your family. Those who witnessed yesterday’s Deepotsav in Ayodhya were deeply moved," Adityanath said.

"After 500 years, Ram Lalla has been seated in Ayodhya Dham. When the people of Ayodhya celebrate the first Diwali in the presence of Ram Lalla, the entire state, the entire country, and the world light lamps in their homes. These lamps represent happiness, enthusiasm, excitement, faith, and unity," he added.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the people of Ayodhya have a responsibility to uphold the temple's significance and reputation for generations to come. 

(ANI)