Ayodhya witnessed a breathtaking celebration on Sunday, October 19, 2025, as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the grand ninth edition of Deepotsav. The ancient city lit up with an extraordinary 26,17,215 earthen lamps (diyas) across 56 ghats along the Saryu River, creating a spectacular scene of light and devotion. This stunning display set a new Guinness World Record, marking a proud moment for the people of Uttar Pradesh and for India’s cultural heritage.
The Deepotsav 2025 celebration not only attracted thousands of devotees from across India but also drew global attention for its scale and spirit. Officials from the Guinness Book of World Records confirmed the record after counting the diyas with the help of drones. Following this confirmation, Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh and Principal Secretary (Tourism and Culture) Amrit Abhijat presented the Guinness certificate to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
This recognition marked a milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s cultural journey, reflecting the government’s commitment to reviving and promoting Ayodhya’s spiritual legacy. “Deepotsav represents our devotion, unity, and the eternal message of victory of good over evil,” CM Adityanath said, calling the record a tribute to the faith of millions of devotees who revere Lord Ram.
The evening began with a grand Sarayu Aarti performed by 2,128 priests, scholars, and Vedic experts. As the chants echoed along the riverbanks, the synchronized lighting of diyas turned Ayodhya into a divine ocean of light. The aarti ceremony symbolized purity and devotion, adding a deeply spiritual touch to the celebration.
Chief Minister Adityanath also performed the traditional aarti of artists dressed as Lord Ram, Mata Sita, and Lakshman. He then ceremonially pulled the Pushpak Vimaan chariot, symbolizing Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. This act captured the spirit of Diwali—the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
More than 2,100 artists participated in cultural performances and synchronized rituals throughout the evening. The event also included a light-and-sound show, Ramlila performances, and music presentations. Artists from five countries joined the festivities, turning the event into a global cultural showcase.
Divisional Commissioner Rajesh Kumar confirmed that all arrangements—security, lighting, sanitation, and crowd management—were handled efficiently. Police and magistrates were deployed across all ghats to ensure safety and smooth conduct. The event ran late into the night, with Ayodhya’s skyline glowing under millions of flickering diyas.
Behind the stunning visual spectacle were thousands of volunteers who worked tirelessly for days. The efforts were coordinated by Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Awadh University under the guidance of Professor Sant Sharan Mishra, the Deepotsav Nodal Officer.
More than 33,000 volunteers participated in arranging and lighting diyas across 56 ghats. Every diya was placed carefully to form beautiful patterns and designs, creating a sea of lights that stretched for miles. The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Bijendra Singh, said that the festival represents “faith, tradition, and dedication,” describing it as a proud moment for every participant involved in presenting Ayodhya’s divine glory to the world.
Tourists and locals were seen participating enthusiastically in lighting lamps, taking photographs, and offering prayers along the Saryu River. Many said that the Deepotsav was not just a visual delight but a deeply emotional experience that connected them with the essence of Indian culture.
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The Deepotsav, which began under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision in 2017, has grown into one of India’s most prominent cultural festivals. What started as a local celebration has now become a symbol of faith and unity celebrated globally. Each year, the event grows in scale and spirit, reflecting Ayodhya’s transformation into a spiritual and cultural capital.
This year’s Deepotsav not only celebrated light and faith but also highlighted inclusivity and community participation. The Chief Minister visited Nishad Basti and Devkali slum areas before the event, lighting lamps with residents, distributing sweets, and interacting with children and elders. His visit emphasized the government’s focus on harmony and inclusiveness, especially among the state’s backward communities.
Preparations in these areas included road repairs, decorative lighting, and cleanliness drives ahead of the festival. During his visit, the Chief Minister said that Deepotsav is not only about grandeur but also about spreading happiness among every section of society.
Earlier in the day, Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at the Hanumangarhi Temple and performed special rituals at the Ram Temple, seeking blessings for the prosperity and peace of the state.
Deepotsav 2025 was not just about setting a world record—it was about reaffirming Ayodhya’s place as the heart of Indian spirituality. With 26 lakh diyas illuminating the ghats, the city radiated peace, devotion, and pride.
The event highlighted India’s deep-rooted cultural traditions and its ability to blend faith with community effort. The massive participation of priests, students, and citizens showcased the strength of unity in diversity.
As Ayodhya continues to emerge as a global hub of spirituality and tradition, Deepotsav 2025 will be remembered as a shining example of what collective devotion and organization can achieve—a celebration where every lamp symbolized hope, faith, and the light of India’s timeless heritage.
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