Ayodhya Glows with 30 Lakh Diyas as Deepotsav Celebrates the Spirit of Diwali
As twilight descended on Ayodhya, the sacred city transformed into a breathtaking ocean of light. More than 30 lakh earthen diyas illuminated the banks of the Saryu River on November 7, marking the 10th edition of Deepotsav and creating a spectacular pre-Diwali celebration of faith, tradition and cultural heritage.
The grand festivities unfolded across 56 ghats, with Ram Ki Paidi at the heart of the celebrations. Thousands of devotees and visitors gathered to witness the radiant spectacle, as rows upon rows of lamps brought the ancient city alive with the timeless glow associated with the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya.
The scale of Deepotsav has grown dramatically since its first edition in 2017, when around 1.71 lakh diyas were lit. This year’s celebration marks a remarkable expansion, with more than 30 lakh lamps planned across the riverfront.
A Celebration Where Tradition Meets Technology
Deepotsav 2026 blended centuries-old traditions with spectacular modern presentations. A 2,100-drone show brought scenes from the Ramayana to life in the night sky, complemented by laser displays, projection mapping, cultural performances and elaborate tableaux.
Around 2,500 artists participated across multiple stages, with Ramlila performances featuring artists from India and countries including South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Laos and Thailand. The international participation added a distinctive global dimension to Ayodhya’s celebration of the Ramayana.
A Spiritual and Cultural Spectacle
The celebrations brought together devotional rituals, music, dance and visual storytelling. Performances depicting episodes from the Ramayana added theatrical grandeur, while the illuminated ghats created a powerful visual expression of devotion.
The occasion was attended by Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with saints and other dignitaries. The Vice-President was the chief guest at the celebrations.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath participated in the rituals and addressed the gathering at Ram Katha Park, reflecting on Ayodhya’s transformation and its enduring spiritual significance.
Ayodhya’s Radiant New Chapter
Beyond the spectacle of millions of lamps, Deepotsav has become an important showcase for Ayodhya’s cultural identity and growing appeal as a pilgrimage and tourism destination. The celebrations combine religious heritage with large-scale cultural programming, drawing visitors and artists from across India and beyond.
As the diyas shimmered along the Saryu, Ayodhya once again offered a luminous reminder of the enduring message of Diwali — the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair and faith over adversity.
For one unforgettable evening, the ancient city seemed to glow not only with millions of flames, but with the timeless spirit of Shri Ram, Diwali and Ayodhya.
