Ayodhya lit up with more than 30 lakh earthen lamps on Saturday as the city celebrated the 10th edition of Deepotsav on the eve of Diwali. The diyas illuminated 56 ghats along the banks of the Saryu River, showcasing the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
The celebrations featured cultural performances, a spectacular light-and-sound show and stage enactments depicting key episodes from the Ramayana.
Thousands of people gathered at the ghats to witness the festivities.
Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath attended the celebrations along with saints and other dignitaries.
Radhakrishnan praised the development of Ayodhya and described the Ram Temple as a symbol of Hindu self-respect.
Addressing the gathering at Ram Katha Park after performing aarti and offering prayers to Lord Ram and Goddess Janaki, CM Yogi Adityanath recalled the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and the sacrifices made by kar sevaks and saints.
He said Ayodhya had undergone a transformation and urged those who had ordered action against Ram devotees and saints in the past to apologise when visiting the city.
The five-day Diwali celebrations began with Dhanteras on November 6.
The main Diwali festival and Lakshmi Puja will be observed on November 8, followed by Govardhan Puja on November 9 and Bhai Dooj on November 10.
