Ayodhya creates world record with over 26 lakh diyas
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended warm greetings to the people of the country on the occasion of Diwali.
In a post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, “Heartfelt Diwali greetings to all on this festival of lights and joy. I pray to Lord Shri Ram for the health and prosperity of all.”
Union Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also conveyed his greetings, wishing for love, peace, and harmony across the nation. “To all my fellow citizens, Happy Diwali! May the divine glow of diyas bring warmth, happiness and success to every home. May this festival inspire us to spread love, peace and harmony across our nation,” Rijiju wrote on X.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described Diwali as a “sacred symbol of the eternal victory of truth.” Extending his greetings, he said, “Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all of you on the grand festival of Diwali, the sacred symbol of the eternal victory of truth, righteousness, and positivity. The festival of lights is not merely a ritual of lighting lamps, but a beacon of hope in the soul, a pulse of harmony in society, and a resolve for national resurgence. May the grace of Lord Shri Ram and Mother Janaki illuminate not only our homes but also our hearts, and may the lamp of faith, enthusiasm, and zeal be kindled in everyone’s life—this is my prayer. Jai Jai Siyaram!”
Meanwhile, Ayodhya created a new Guinness World Record during Deepotsav by lighting over 26 lakh oil lamps and hosting the largest-ever Saryu aarti.
The event was organised by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department in collaboration with the Ayodhya District Administration. A total of 2,617,215 diyas were lit along the banks of the Saryu River, with more than 30,000 volunteers from universities, colleges, and other departments participating in the lighting and rotational activities. The diyas were arranged in a precise pattern for accurate counting and verification by representatives from Guinness World Records.
In addition, 2,128 devotees performed the Saryu aarti on the evening of October 17, marking another milestone in Ayodhya’s grand celebrations.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated over five days, beginning with Dhanteras. On this day, people purchase jewellery or utensils and offer prayers. The second day, known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali, is followed by the main Diwali day when devotees worship Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity.
The fourth day is observed as Govardhan Puja, and the festivities conclude with Bhai Dooj, when sisters pray for the long and happy lives of their brothers, who in return give them gifts.
