As the holy city of Ayodhya prepares to glow once again in divine brilliance, Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh has directed officials and executing agencies to ensure that Deepotsav 2025 becomes the grandest and most awe-inspiring celebration yet.

Chairing a review meeting in Lucknow today, the Minister said that a mock drill will be held on October 18 to test all logistical and safety arrangements ahead of the main event.

The Minister instructed that this year’s grand Shobhayatras should also reflect social messages such as women empowerment through Mission Shakti and a pledge to cleanliness through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, blending grandeur with purpose.

“Deepotsav should not only be a festival of lights but a reflection of our social consciousness and unity,” he said.

Officials informed that preparations are in the final stage for lighting over 26 lakh earthen lamps and holding a Maha Aarti with 2,100 participants, all of which are expected to set new world records.

A spectacular 1,100-drone aerial display will also be a key highlight.

Highlighting the inclusive nature of the celebration, Minister Jaiveer Singh said invitations are being extended to representatives from the union Ministries of Tourism, Culture, and External Affairs, as well as to cultural delegations from all Indian states and several foreign nations.

“Ayodhya is now the cultural capital of global faith. Deepotsav 2025 will not only honour Lord Ram’s homecoming but also showcase India’s unity, diversity, and hospitality before the world,” he stated.

The Minister further emphasized that access to Ramkatha Park should be made easier for the public and that adequate arrangements for crowd management, illumination, sanitation, and amenities must be ensured.

He also directed that the International Ram Leela Festival be promoted globally.

As part of the celebrations, there will be thematic dance and music performances from various states, including groups from southern India and Haryana.

In all, ten cultural stages will be set up across prominent locations in Ayodhya to showcase India’s artistic heritage.

In keeping with the state’s commitment to sustainability, Singh underlined that Deepotsav 2025 will be entirely eco-friendly.

Dedicated selfie points featuring depictions of Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman will be set up for youth and visitors, while extensive arrangements are being made for signage, drinking water, cleanliness, lighting, and decoration to enhance visitor experience.

This year’s Deepotsav is poised to create history once again.

More than 26 lakh lamps will illuminate 56 ghats along the Saryu River.

Around 33,000 registered volunteers will take part in the record-setting lighting ceremony, each lamp symbolizing devotion and unity.

Calling the event a fusion of faith, innovation, and technology, Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Deepotsav has evolved into a festival that goes beyond devotion, it is a celebration of culture, creativity, and collective pride. This year, efforts are being made on a war footing to make it more magnificent than ever before, offering an unforgettable experience to every visitor and spectator.”

The grand spectacle will include a multimedia projection mapping show, 3D holographic musical laser presentations, a choreographed musical drone display, green musical fireworks, hydraulic screen shows, and water tableaux, alongside live performances by over 100 artists.

Principal Secretary (Tourism, Culture & Religious Affairs) Amrit Abhijat instructed that all roads leading to Ram Path be illuminated and decorated, and trees along the route adorned with lights.

He added that nodal officers have been appointed to ensure smooth coordination, while female led tableaux and exhibits highlighting government initiatives will add a social dimension to the event.