Ayodhya, Nov. 7 -- Folk traditions from Braj, Bundelkhand, Awadh and eastern Uttar Pradesh became part of Lord Ram's ceremonial welcome to Ayodhya on Saturday, as a vibrant Shobhayatra opened the state's tenth Deepotsav.
UP Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh flagged off the procession from Saket Mahavidyalaya towards Ramkatha Park. Tableaux based on the Ramayan's seven kands carried the narrative through the city, with cultural troupes accompanying the displays through music, dance and costumed performances.
Scenes from Lord Ram's life, exile and homecoming formed the storyline, while the participating artists brought their regions' distinctive rhythms and traditions to the journey.
For visitors, the procession offered an opportu...