Ayodhya | October 19, 2025 β The holy city of Ayodhya is all set to dazzle the world this Diwali season as authorities prepare to light a staggering 26 lakh diyas (oil lamps) as part of the annual Deepotsav celebrations. The initiative aims to set a new Guinness World Record and showcase the cityβs rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
β What Is Deepotsav 2025?
Deepotsav, held every year in Ayodhya, celebrates the festival of lights (Diwali) and the return of Lord Rama to the city after 14 years of exile, as narrated in the epic Ramayana.
For 2025, the festivities are grandly scaled up:
- 26 lakh diyas will illuminate the cityβs ghats, streets, and temples.
- Special arrangements for cultural performances, music, and light shows are in place.
- Devotees and tourists from across India are expected to participate.
Authorities are also keeping an eye on Diwali trends across the nation, including this yearβs Diwali date confusion, which even saw the French Embassy in India join the conversation with a lighthearted video. This shows how the festival has captured both national and international attention.
πͺ Guinness Record Attempt
The attempt to light 26 lakh diyas is being closely monitored by officials to meet Guinness World Record standards:
- Each diya will be numbered and counted systematically.
- Safety measures, including fire extinguishers and volunteer management, have been put in place.
- The lighting process is scheduled to take several hours, ensuring visibility from multiple locations.
If successful, Ayodhya will surpass previous records set in India for large-scale diya illumination, solidifying its position as a hub of Diwali celebrations.
π Cultural Significance
Lighting diyas holds profound symbolism:
- Represents the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
- Honors Lord Ramaβs return and the associated joy of Diwali.
- Encourages community participation and unity through shared celebration.
This massive lighting initiative is also intended to inspire devotion and cultural pride among citizens and visitors alike.
π Tourist and Devotee Participation
The Ayodhya administration has made arrangements for crowd management and facilities:
- Shuttle services for tourists from nearby cities.
- Special prayer halls and viewing galleries for families and senior citizens.
- Coordination with local authorities to ensure a smooth experience for devotees and visitors.
Officials are expecting millions of attendees over the festival period.
π Safety Precautions
Given the scale of the event, authorities are emphasizing fire safety and emergency protocols:
- Deployment of hundreds of volunteers and security personnel.
- Fire safety stations along main ghats and crowded streets.
- Continuous monitoring by drone cameras to prevent accidents.
These measures aim to make Deepotsav 2025 both spectacular and safe.