Ayodhya, the holy birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, is set to shine like never before as Deepotsav 2025 begins on Sunday. With preparations reaching their peak, the city is gearing up to script history by lighting a record-breaking 26,11,101 earthen diyas along Ram Ki Paidi and 56 ghats on the banks of the Saryu River.

Behind the magic of Deepotsav lies a massive human effort. More than 10,000 volunteers, including students from colleges and universities across Uttar Pradesh, have come together to bring the vision to life.

The diyas are being arranged in precise, intricate patterns, forming stunning visuals across the ghats. Starting early this morning, volunteers began preparing the lamps by placing wicks and pouring oil, all set to be lit in perfect unison at sunset.

Guinness world record in sight

This year’s Deepotsav aims to break its own Guinness World Record. Adjudicator Richard Stenning and his team from Guinness World Records are overseeing the attempt with a structured verification process.

The venue is divided into designated zones, each monitored by stewards ensuring proper lighting and pattern accuracy. All participants are being tracked using QR code scanning, adding a layer of transparency and precision to the event.

"We will deduct any sort of discrepancies from the grand total that we've had coming in...Fingers crossed that they break the record,” Stenning said, as the record attempt got underway.

What makes Deepotsav in Ayodhya more than just a festival?

For millions of devotees, Deepotsav is more than just a festival, it’s a spiritual pilgrimage. The lighting of diyas commemorates the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over evil.

The symbolic glow of each diya reflects the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and good over evil. Pilgrims from all corners of India have already begun arriving, eager to be part of this divine experience.

CM Yogi Adityanath’s vision:

The transformation of Deepotsav into a global cultural celebration has been spearheaded by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who envisioned Ayodhya as an international hub of faith, tourism, and tradition.

Under his leadership, Deepotsav has grown exponentially in scale and stature, drawing global attention and establishing Ayodhya as a must-visit destination during Diwali.