​​​​​​​Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), Oct 19: Thousands of devotees thronged the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya on Sunday ahead of Diwali celebrations tomorrow.

The city is set to mark Deepotsav, celebrating the return of Lord Shri Ram, with grand preparations underway to light over 26 lakh diyas and create a historic spectacle.

Diwali is celebrated to mark Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Mata Sita during that time. After defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya, where the people welcomed him by lighting earthen diyas and sharing sweets in joyous celebration of his homecoming and triumph of good over evil.

Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, with people preparing by cleansing their homes and uplifting their spirits. Ritual baths, lighting diyas, and decorating with rangolis and flowers are integral parts of the celebration. The festival is also marked by the exchange of warm wishes and messages to spread joy and positivity.

This year, a record 26,11,101 lamps will illuminate Ram Ki Paidi and 56 ghats, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The glow of these diyas will not only captivate the eyes but also fill hearts with devotion to Lord Shri Ram, showcasing Ayodhya's spiritual and cultural magnificence on a global scale.

Deepotsav, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, stands as a powerful symbol of faith, unity, and devotion, reinforcing Ayodhya’s identity as a global center of spirituality and tourism.

This year, over 10,000 volunteers from universities and colleges are working together to surpass last year's record by lighting more than 26 lakh diyas. Preparations began this morning with the filling of wicks and oil, while the lamps are set to be lit in the evening. The number of lamps is being counted based on the specific patterns in which they are arranged.

Guinness World Records adjudicator Richard Stenning outlined a structured process for the record attempt, likely similar to Deepotsav’s mass lamp lighting event. The procedure includes scanning QR codes to track participants as they enter the venue.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Police have been carrying out continuous inspections across Ayodhya to ensure public safety ahead of Deepotsav 2025.