Ayodhya achieved two Guinness World Records on Sunday evening during Deepotsav 2025, lighting 26,17,215 lamps along the sacred Saryu River and organizing simultaneous aarti by 2,128 priests and devotees at Ram ki Paidi.
Record-Breaking Celebration
The records were verified through drone counts and official certification at the Saryu River bank, where the Department of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and District Administration organized the event. Devotees from across India and abroad gathered, chanting “Jai Shri Ram” as temples, lanes, and homes illuminated the holy city.
Event Highlights
A laser and light show illuminated Ram ki Paidi, where Lord Rama is believed to have achieved Nirvana. The celebration featured a Ram Leela performance, drone show, and fireworks display that filled the sky, captivating attendees including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
As Guinness World Records officials announced the certifications, Adityanath raised his arms in celebration before receiving certificates amid crowd cheers.
Chief Minister’s Statement
“Every lamp reminds us that truth can be troubled but cannot be defeated. It is the destiny of truth to be victorious, and with that destiny of victory, Sanatana Dharma has continuously struggled for 500 years. As a result of those struggles, a grand and divine temple has been constructed in Ayodhya,” Adityanath stated after certification.
He added that through Deepotsav, efforts have been made to build a distinct identity for Uttar Pradesh, ensuring citizens’ faith is protected under the “double-engine government.”
Growing Scale Over Years
Since 2017, Deepotsav has expanded significantly under Adityanath’s leadership:
- 2017: 1.71 lakh lamps
- 2018: 3.01 lakh lamps
- 2019: 4.04 lakh lamps
- 2020: 6.06 lakh lamps
- 2021: 9.41 lakh lamps
- 2022: 15.76 lakh lamps
- 2023: 22.23 lakh lamps
- 2024: 25.12 lakh lamps
- 2025: 26.17 lakh lamps
Cultural Significance
The steady growth reflects Ayodhya’s flourishing cultural and economic development, with the festival becoming a symbol of the city’s devotion and governmental support for religious celebrations. The event showcases Uttar Pradesh’s efforts to promote religious tourism and cultural heritage while establishing Ayodhya as a major pilgrimage destination.
The celebration occurs against the backdrop of the Ram Mandir consecration earlier this year, reinforcing Ayodhya’s spiritual significance in contemporary India.
