Ayodhya: In a historic and emotionally charged celebration at Ramkatha Park, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath declared that Deepotsav 2025 is not merely a festival of lights, but a symbol of faith’s triumph over 500 years of darkness. Addressing the ceremonial Ram Rajyabhishek, he said, “Lord Ram is no longer in a tent—He now resides in His grand and divine temple. This is the dawn of a New India and a New Ayodhya.”
Yogi sharply criticized previous governments, stating, “Those who fired bullets at Ram devotees are now uncomfortable with the light of these lamps.” He emphasized that Ayodhya has emerged as a center of faith, development and self-reliance, reflecting the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and embodying the essence of modern Ram Rajya.
Record-Breaking Illumination: 1.51 Crore Lamps Across Uttar Pradesh
The Chief Minister revealed that this year’s Deepotsav has set unprecedented records:
- 26 lakh lamps lit in Ayodhya Dham alone
- 1 crore 51 lakh lamps lit across the entire state
“This glow represents the collective resolve of every Indian,” he said.
Before his address, CM Yogi honoured leading saints including Mahant Nritya Gopaldas Ji, Jagadguru Raghavacharya Ji, Jagadguru Vasudevacharya Ji, Jagadguru Sridharacharya Ji, Dr. Ramvilas Vedanti Ji, and others with garlands, shawls and mementos.
“These Lamps Reflect the Struggles of Our Ancestors”
CM Yogi reminded the audience that the struggle for Ram Janmabhoomi was long and painful.
“These lamps are not just lights—they are symbols of the hardships, sacrifices, and unshaken faith of our ancestors,” he said. “For centuries Bhagwan Shri Ram was kept in a tent. Today, as we celebrate the ninth Deepotsav, He sits in His majestic temple. Truth may be challenged, but it cannot be defeated.”
Sharp Attack on Opposition
Yogi accused the Congress of calling Lord Ram “mythical” in court and the Samajwadi Party of firing on devotees during the Ram Mandir movement.
“They locked the temple—we lit the lamps. They tried to erase Ayodhya’s identity—we restored it as Ayodhya Dham. These forces tried to divide society for political gain, but faith cannot be imprisoned.”
Ayodhya: From Neglect to Global Spiritual Capital
The Chief Minister highlighted Ayodhya’s transformation into a world-class pilgrimage and tourism destination.
“Earlier just a few thousand pilgrims came, and the city struggled with chaos and filth. Today, 6 to 10 crore devotees visit Ayodhya every year. People from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Kohima to Kutch, and even abroad come here with devotion.”
He added, “This is the Ayodhya we developed according to PM Modi’s vision—clean, capable, secure, spiritual, modern, and emotionally connected to every Indian.”
“Ram Rajya in Action: Development with Compassion”
Yogi said that the double-engine government is implementing the ideals of Ram Rajya by empowering the poor and ensuring dignity for all.
“Every home now has toilets, roofs, clean cooking gas, health insurance, free ration, employment, irrigation, and market access. No one is left behind.”
He added that India is promoting swadeshi, heritage, and self-reliance, allowing every talent to flourish in the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Law, Order and Pride Restored in UP
CM Yogi declared that Uttar Pradesh has shed its old image of fear and crime.
“Before 2017, festivals brought tension. Today, they bring joy. Uttar Pradesh now ranks among the safest states in the country. There is law and order, respect for the poor, happiness for farmers, safety for women, and opportunities for youth. The state no longer struggles for identity—it defines identity.”
Ayodhya: A City Steeped in Heritage
Yogi highlighted the installation of statues of great saints like Tyagaraja, Purandar Das and Arunachala Mahan Swami, as well as memorials for Lata Mangeshkar, Shabari, Ahilya, Nishad Raj, and even the mythic squirrel who helped build Ram Setu.
“These monuments remind us of devotion, sacrifice and the contributions of every soul in Ramayana.”
As thousands of lamps illuminated the night sky and chants of “Jai Shri Ram” echoed across the Sarayu, Ayodhya stood as a testament to a resurgent cultural pride.
“Deepotsav 2025 is the declaration that faith has finally triumphed,” CM Yogi concluded.
“This is not just Deepotsav—this is the eternal light of New India and New Ayodhya.”
