Ayodhya: The holy city of Ayodhya is gearing up for a grand and historic 9th Deepotsav, where the celebration will go beyond the glow of millions of lamps to highlight Uttar Pradesh’s development journey and India’s cultural legacy. This year, the festival will feature vibrant tableaux (jhankis) depicting both government achievements and the timeless stories of the Ramayana.
According to officials, the Information Department will present 15 creative tableaux showcasing the Yogi government’s progress in infrastructure, education, health, tourism, agriculture, women empowerment and cultural development. These jhankis will symbolize the growth and prosperity of modern Uttar Pradesh.
Meanwhile, the Tourism and Culture Department will bring the seven Kands of the Ramayana—Bal Kand, Ayodhya Kand, Aranya Kand, Kishkindha Kand, Sundar Kand, Lanka Kand and Uttar Kand—to life through thematic tableaux. A total of 22 jhankis are being prepared at Saket Mahavidyalaya, merging devotion with visual storytelling.
In addition, folk art and traditional dance forms from various states will add colour and diversity to the celebrations. Haryana’s Phag, Kerala’s Kathakali, Rajasthan’s Jhoomar, Punjab’s Bhangra, Odisha’s Sambalpuri, Ghazipur’s Dibiya, and folk arts from West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh will captivate audiences along Ram Path.
Over 500 artists will perform, making Deepotsav a pan-India cultural extravaganza.
District Information Officer Santosh Kumar Dwivedi said special focus is being given to make the tableaux visually appealing and technologically advanced, using modern techniques for an immersive experience. Alongside, Ayodhya will be illuminated with millions of lamps across Ram Path, Bhakti Path and other key locations, aiming for another world record.
A representative from the organising firm, Vivid India, revealed that the tableaux will highlight major achievements such as Prayagraj Mahakumbh, Kashi Corridor, Defense Corridor, Ayushman Cashless Scheme, PM Awas Yojana, CM Awas Yojana, PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, Swachh and Green UP, Self-Reliant Women, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, UP Police Security, and Ayodhya Development Authority projects.
Deepotsav 2025 promises to be a historic blend of development, devotion and diversity, showcasing ‘Viksit Bharat, Viksit Uttar Pradesh’ while celebrating the cultural soul of India in Lord Ram’s own city.
