Ayodhya Creates Guinness World Record by Lighting 26.17 Lakh Lamps

Digital Desk

Ayodhya witnessed a historic evening during the 9th Deepotsav, as the city set two Guinness World Records. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the celebrations by lighting lamps at the Ram Temple and along Ram Ki Paidi, marking the beginning of the grand festival.

According to official data, 26,17,215 lamps were lit simultaneously across the city — earning Ayodhya its first record. The second record was set when 2,128 priests performed a magnificent Maha Aarti on the banks of the Saryu River. The lamp count was verified using drones, while the evening sky dazzled with a laser light show and a drone display featuring 1,100 drones that recreated scenes from the Ramayana.

Highlights from the Celebration

Ramleela performances depicted key moments from Lord Ram’s life, including the scene where Mata Sita garlands Shri Ram.
CM Yogi performed rituals at the Ram Temple before lighting the ceremonial lamps and later joined the grand aarti at Ram Ghat.
Thousands of devotees gathered along Ram Ki Paidi to participate in the Deepotsav, transforming Ayodhya into a sea of light.

Dignitaries and Global Participation

Foreign visitors also joined the celebrations. Smith and his wife from the United States, attending their first Diwali in India, were seen enthusiastically chanting “Jai Shri Ram” with the crowd, praising the grandeur and divinity of Ayodhya.

CM Yogi’s Address

Speaking at the event, CM Yogi Adityanath said,

“Today, your faith shines through the magnificent Ram Temple — a symbol of a united and prosperous India. As long as India stands united, no one can insult anyone’s faith. A united India ensures that festivals like Deepotsav are celebrated with the same joy every year.”

He also remarked that those who once distanced themselves from festivals like Deepotsav, Rangotsav, and Dev Deepawali had no right to appreciate such celebrations now.

“How can anti-Ram elements enjoy Deepotsav?” he asked, adding that the festival represents the pride of Uttar Pradesh and the strength of its youth.

The Chief Minister credited local artisans from the Kumhar and Prajapati communities for making the celebration possible, saying their craftsmanship illuminated Ayodhya.

Encouraging the crowd to join the celebration, Yogi said from Ram Ki Paidi,

“If you enjoyed this Diwali event, switch on your smartphone lights and send a message of joy and unity to the nation and the world.”

As the night sky over the Saryu Ghats glittered with lights and drones, Ayodhya stood resplendent — glowing with devotion, unity, and a new world record.