Why Diwali in Ayodhya is Truly Special
Diwali in Ayodhya is a very grand, spiritual, and culturally rich celebration, often regarded as one of the most spectacular in all of India.
A Festival with Mythological Roots
- According to the Ramayana, the citizens of Ayodhya celebrated Lord Rama’s return from 14 years of exile by lighting countless diyas (oil lamps) throughout the city, marking the original act that inspired the festival of Diwali.
- Today, this tradition continues with immense devotion — Ayodhya is widely considered the spiritual birthplace of Diwali.
Deepotsav – The Festival of Lights
- Ayodhya’s signature Diwali event, the Deepotsav, transforms the city—especially the Saryu River ghats and Ram Ki Paidi—into breathtaking landscapes with millions of diyas and immersive cultural performances.
- The focal point is the awe-inspiring spectacle of lighting millions of lamps in synchronized beauty.
Guinness World Records & Spectacle
- In 2023, Ayodhya set a Guinness World Record by lighting around 2.22 million lamps.
- In 2024, the city surpassed itself by lighting 2.512 million clay oil lamps along the Saryu River, setting new records for scale and coordination.
- The festival included large-scale rituals with over 1,100 priests, a drone and laser show, helicopter flower showers, devotional performances, and significant volunteer efforts—over 30,000 participants contributed to lighting the lamps.
What to Expect if You Visit Ayodhya During Diwali
Key Locations & Events
- Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: The newly completed Ram Mandir hosted its inaugural Diwali in 2024 — a historic milestone.
- Saryu River Ghats & Ram Ki Paidi: The heart of Deepotsav, where rope after rope of diyas are lit in unison, offering both spiritual resonance and visual wonder.
- Cultural Performances: On-stage Ram Leela plays, traditional dances, bhajans, and storytelling are held at venues like Ram Katha Park and Tulsi Smarak Bhavan.
Rituals & Atmosphere
- Devotees perform Saryu aarti, light diyas, take holy dips in the river, and participate in uplifting pujas at temples such as Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan.
- The ambiance ranges from the serene glow of devotional worship to dramatic aerial drone displays and choreography of light and sound.
Bottom Line
Diwali in Ayodhya is more than just a festival — it’s a living legend, a record-breaking celebration, and a visually stunning spiritual pilgrimage all rolled into one. Whether you’re drawn by faith, culture, or sheer wonder, Ayodhya during Deepotsav offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.