Ayodhya, the revered city of Lord Ram, is aglow with the festivities of the 7th Deepotsav, a grand celebration of lights illuminating the streets and hearts of the ancient city. This year’s Deepotsav, held under the patronage of the Yogi government, has captivated onlookers with its mesmerizing tableaux and vibrant processions.
On Saturday, the city witnessed a breathtaking procession featuring 18 majestic tableaux depicting the life and legend of Lord Ram. Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh flagged off the procession, which wove its way through Ayodhya’s streets, captivating spectators with its artistry and devotion.
Artists from across India came together to showcase their faith and talent, creating a spectacle of vibrant colors and rhythmic movements. The procession featured folk dances from various regions, adding a touch of cultural diversity to the celebration.
Aarti, a devotional offering of light, was performed at designated locations along the procession route, creating an atmosphere of reverence and serenity. The priestly community of Ayodhya expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his unwavering support in promoting Ayodhya’s cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Jaiveer Singh announced that Ayodhya will once again set a new world record for lighting the most diyas (lamps) during Deepotsav. He also revealed that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will perform Lord Ram’s coronation during the festival, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
“The presence of diplomats from 50 major countries during Lord Shri Ram’s coronation will be a testament to Ayodhya’s global significance,” declared Minister Singh. He further stated that Deepotsav serves as a reminder of the glorious Tretayug era when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, and that the enthusiastic reception witnessed today mirrors the joy that filled Ayodhya during that time.
“Ayodhya is India’s treasured jewel, and the cultural message emanating from this celebration will resonate on the global stage, conveying the essence of Indian Sanatan culture to audiences worldwide,” asserted Minister Singh.
The vibrant tableaux, a collaborative effort between the Tourism Department and Information Department, brought to life a kaleidoscope of themes, including Putreshthi Yagya, a ritual performed to ensure the well-being of the kingdom, and the government’s initiatives for women’s empowerment, education, and welfare.
The tableau narratives also highlighted the importance of environmental protection, infrastructure development, and technological advancements, showcasing the Yogi government’s commitment to holistic progress.
The visual narratives extended to social welfare initiatives, including the Kevat narrative, which emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. The majestic Ram Darbar tableau symbolized the restoration of law and order, while the tableaux depicting Shabari-Ram Milap and Lanka Dahan reaffirmed the ideals of devotion and justice.
The Tourism Department’s tableaux presented a thematic journey through the seven chapters of Lord Ram’s life, from his birth in Ayodhya to his coronation in Ayodhya. The Ram Rath tableau served as a grand finale, leaving a lasting impression on the spectators.
As the Deepotsav festivities continue, Ayodhya basks in the glow of lights, music, and devotion, celebrating its rich cultural heritage and embracing the promise of a brighter future under the Yogi government’s visionary leadership.
