Ayodhya, Nov. 6 -- Ayodhya is gearing up for a spectacular display of light and colour on November 7, with 30 lakh earthen lamps set to illuminate its ghats, temples and streets during the 10th edition of Deepotsav. With the grand celebration a day away, preparations have gathered pace across the holy city, where volunteers are working round the clock to arrange diyas along the Saryu riverfront and other designated locations.
The ghats are being decorated with rows of earthen lamps, while artists, local residents and volunteers are joining hands with the administration to make the landmark edition memorable. Thousands of flames are expected to transform the riverfront into a sea of light during the celebrations.
The approach road to Ram Katha Park, the main venue, has also been given a colourful makeover. Elaborate rangolis featuring lotus flowers, auspicious kalash, Swastik symbols and traditional diyas have been created along the route through which Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will reach the venue. Artists are giving final touches to the designs, using vibrant colours and traditional motifs reflecting India's cultural and spiritual heritage.
The chief minister is personally monitoring the preparations, with the state government seeking to showcase Ayodhya's cultural heritage and tourism potential on a global platform.
Meanwhile, Ram Ki Paidi is emerging as another attraction for visitors with new tourism facilities developed at a cost of around Rs 23.68 crore. These include an open-air theatre, viewing and visitor galleries, a selfie point, entrance gate, stage and mural wall.
Six stone chhatris and six stone Jyoti Deep installations have also been constructed, along with decorative pillars, planters and stone latticework. A green area, signposts, inscriptions and lighting arrangements have further enhanced the riverfront.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the facilities would offer devotees and tourists a different experience and provide a platform for cultural programmes throughout the year. Additional Chief Secretary and Director General, Tourism, Amrit Abhijat said the initiative aimed to connect visitors with Ayodhya's spiritual heritage, cultural traditions and the natural beauty of the Saryu riverfront.
The celebrations will also carry a message of peace and social harmony, with around 60 women associated with the Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya participating in the Saryu Aarti. Led by Brahma Kumari Shashi, the women are rehearsing for the ceremony.
Dressed in white, they will convey messages of peace, purity, love and harmony. Shashi said the values associated with Ram Rajya should be reflected in people's conduct, adding that mutual cooperation, goodwill and concern for others were essential for a harmonious society.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.