Ayodhya Deepotsava 2025 aims for Guinness record, seeks to draw tourists like Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali

The Uttar Pradesh government is gearing up for its grandest-ever Deepotsava in Ayodhya on October 19, with an ambitious plan to light 26 lakh diyas along the ghats, aiming for a Guinness World Record while turning the festival into a dazzling mix of tradition and technology, The Indian Express reported.

According to the officials, this year’s celebration will also include drone formations, 3D holographic visuals, laser light shows, and projection mapping of the Ayodhya Ram temple and Saryu ghats, making it a multimedia cultural extravaganza aimed at drawing tourists much like Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali.

The officials said that ‘Ram Ki Paidi’ will serve as the central stage for drone, laser and holographic presentations, designed to narrate episodes from the Ramayana. The holographic visuals and musical projections are being choreographed to complement the drone formations, creating a layered storytelling experience for visitors.

The festivities will also bring alive traditional elements through 30 cultural troupes from across India, who will perform Ramleela episodes, folk dances, and moving tableaux. Scenes such as the coronation of Ram and Sita or Hanuman’s devotion will be staged on illuminated floats parading through Ayodhya in the evening. These performances will complement the massive diya-lighting ceremony and the grand aarti on the Saryu ghats.

Organisers have mobilised around 7,000 youth volunteers to help with diya-lighting, logistics, and crowd management. Additionally, about 1,100 saints, seers, and community leaders have been invited to witness the celebrations, ensuring a strong spiritual presence.

Since its launch in 2017, Deepotsava has grown larger each year. Principal Secretary (Tourism) Mukesh Meshram said the aim is to ensure Deepotsava is recognised not merely as a festival, but as a living reflection of India’s heritage and traditions.