Dipotsava celebration in Ayodhya illuminated Ramnagari with three million lamps

Ayodhya is preparing to witness the largest festival of faith, devotion, and grandeur. Preparations for the tenth edition of Dipotsav are in their final stages. This year, over 3 million lights will be lit on 56 ghats of the Sarayu River, including Ram Ki Paidi. Additionally, 2151 Vedacharya and Acharyas will jointly conduct the Mahaarti on the banks of the Sarayu.

The chief guest of Dipotsav-2026 will be the Vice President of India, CP Radhakrishnan. The Minister of Chief Ministers, Yogi Adityanath, will also attend the event. This year's Dipotsav will present a unique combination of traditions and modern technologies.

2100 domestic drones will be displayed in the sky, bringing to life the main episodes of the Ramayana. The images will include figures of Lord Shri Rama, Lakshmana, and Hanuman in heroic poses, the scene of Ravana's killing, Pushpaka Vimana, and Ram Darbar. Various depictions of Muni Valmiki, Goswami Tulsidas, and Hanuman will also be shown in the sky.

A feature of the preparations for Dipotsav is the integration of Ganga-Jamuni culture. Muslim artisans are participating in creating decorations based on the stories of the Ramayana. This festival, organized by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, attracts 35 thousand volunteers who are busy illuminating the 56 ghats of the Sarayu. Among the main attractions will be multimedia projections, laser shows, live performances by more than 100 artists, and shows with musical green fireworks.

The Minister of Tourism and Culture of Uttar Pradesh, Jaivir Singh, stated that Dipotsav began in 2017 at the initiative of the Minister of Chief Ministers, Yogi Adityanath. The first edition included about 1.71 lakh lights, after which the event expanded annually. This year, it is planned to light over 3 million lights on 56 ghats.

According to the minister, the increase in the number of lights indicates not only the grandeur of the event but also the faith of the people and reverence for Lord Shri Rama. He expressed confidence that the tenth edition will set a new record in terms of public participation and scale.

35 thousand volunteers, 900 ghat coordinators, 112 ghat supervisors, and 27 observers have been involved in organizing Dipotsav. Cultural programs, thematic decoration, international Ramlila, the Dipotsav fair, and exhibitions are also being held. These events will allow tourists from different countries to get acquainted with the cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of Ayodhya.

Dipotsav started in Ayodhya in 2017 when 1.71 lakh lights were lit. After this, in 2018, the number increased to 3.01 lakh, in 2019—to 4.04 lakh, in 2020—to 6.06 lakh, and in 2021—to 9.41 lakh lights. In 2022, the number of lights reached 15.76 lakh. Then, in 2023, 22.23 lakh were lit, in 2024—25.12 lakh, and in 2025—26.11 lakh lights. Now, the tenth edition in 2026 is planned to light over 3 million lights.

On the eve of Diwali, the Tourism Department is organizing a grand aerial show using drones in Ayodhya. This time, 2100 colorful domestic drones will be simultaneously in the sky, forming various light patterns. The number of drones has been increased by approximately double compared to last year, ensuring a fusion of faith, spirituality, and modern technology.

The show will depict scenes with Lord Shri Rama, Lakshmana, and Hanuman in a heroic pose, as well as the killing of Ravana, Pushpaka Vimana, and Ram Darbar. Furthermore, various images of Muni Valmiki, Goswami Tulsidas, and Hanuman will be brought to life in the sky. Symbols of Ram Mandir, Dipotsav, the Uttar Pradesh government, and the Tourism Department will also be displayed using drones.

To make the show special, a special combination of music, voiceover, and melodic narration along with the scene structure has been developed. The synchronization of sound and light will correspond to the episodes of the Ramayana, introducing viewers to different stages of the story. Additionally, a special drone show will be organized for the local residents of Ayodhya on November 9.

The Dipotsav parade will feature attractive decorations based on the seven Kandas of the Ramayana. They vividly portray the life journey of Lord Shri Rama and key episodes of the Ramkatha. About 1000 artists from various states of the country will present folk dances, music, and cultural programs in different parts of Ayodhya.

The entire city of Ramnagri has been transformed through thematic decoration. Photo zones, art installations, and sand art have been created in key locations of the city. In addition, a smart lighting system with branding on lamp posts and QR code-based signage has been organized, and LED panels have been equipped.

To attract the youth, Generation Z, modern entertainment has been integrated into Dipotsav alongside traditions. Multimedia projections and laser shows will take place at Ram Ki Paidi.

The city of Ayodhya in the state of Uttar Pradesh is preparing for the celebration of Diwali, offering visitors the opportunity to visit this sacred land, which is the birthplace of Lord Rama. The Shri Ramdhamabhū Temple is decorated with bright lights and flowers, creating a magnificent sight, especially in the evening.

Before the Diwali festival and the festival of lights, the Shri Ramdhamabhū temple was specially decorated. The temple complex is equipped with attractive lighting fixtures, and its beauty is further enhanced by floral and other decorative elements. These decorations were published on the social media of the Shri Ramdhamabhū Tirtha Crest Trust, showcasing the temple bathed in light at night. The majestic architecture and twinkling lights make this place a center of attraction for pilgrims and tourists.

Ayodhya has a deep connection with the Diwali festival. According to religious beliefs, after completing fourteen years of exile and defeating Ravana, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya along with Mother Sita and Lakshmana. The residents of the city lit lamps throughout the city to celebrate his return. This tradition continues, and Diwali is celebrated here every year with great enthusiasm, as the entire city is adorned with lights, lanterns, and flowers. By coming here with family, one can not only visit religious shrines but also enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The Festival of Lights of Ayodhya is known for its grandeur. The tenth edition of this event is planned for November 7, 2026. As part of this event, it is planned to light about 3 million clay lamps at 56 ghats along the Sarayu River and in various temples. During the festival of lights, visitors can expect thousands of lights on the ghats, cultural performances, and religious ceremonies. The sight of burning lamps along the Sarayu River is a special spectacle for tourists.

If you are planning a trip to Ayodhya for Diwali, besides the Ram Temple, it is worth considering visiting the following places. At the Hanuman Garhi Temple, you can see Lord Hanuman, who is one of the famous religious attractions of Ayodhya. Kanka Bhavan, dedicated to Mother Sita and Lord Rama, is known for its beautiful structure and religious significance. On the ghats along the Sarayu River in the evening, you can watch aarti and glowing lights. Ram Ki Paidi, located on the banks of the Sarayu River, is ideal for evening walks and taking beautiful photographs.

A trip to Ayodhya during the Diwali festivals will provide an opportunity to witness Indian culture and traditions combined with religious faith. However, it should be noted that a large crowd is expected during the festival of lights. Therefore, it is recommended to book hotels and train tickets in advance. It is also necessary to familiarize yourself with the instructions of the local administration regarding visits to temples and ghats.