Deepotsav sets tone for consecration ceremony of Lord Ram on January 22

“Lord Ram, Mata Janaki, three brothers, Lord Hanuman, and Guru Vashishtha boarded a chariot from the helipad and proceeded to the Ramkatha Park venue. The chariot, carrying Lord Ram, Mata Janaki, three brothers, Bajrangbali, and Guru Vashishtha was pulled by Patel, Adityanath and Pathak,” added the spokesperson.

Subsequently, Adityanath also performed a symbolic coronation of Lord Shri Ram. In a gesture of respect, saints and sages present at the event were honoured by the chief minister.

Meanwhile, an extravagant procession featuring 18 majestic and divine tableaux depicting the character of Lord Ram captivated the onlookers in Ayodhya. Minister of Tourism and Culture Jaiveer Singh flagged off the procession. The tableaux showcasing the life of Shri Ram commenced from Udaya Square in Ayodhya and made its way to Ram Katha Park. Artists from various states across the country used this grand procession as a platform to vividly express their faith. The streets were lined with enthusiastic spectators as the procession featured major folk dances from different regions of India.

“Along the route, aarti of the tableaux was performed at various locations. Special gratitude was also expressed to the chief minister on behalf of the priestly community of Ayodhya,” said a government spokesperson.

On this occasion, the Tourism and Culture Minister said, “Ram Nagari will host a Deepotsav celebration. A new record for lighting the most diyas in the world will be set once more. Chief Minister Adityanath will perform Lord Ram’s coronation during this festival of lights. The most important aspect will be the presence of diplomats from 50 major countries during Lord Shri Ram’s coronation.”

The UP Cabinet has also decided to provide international status to Ayodhya Research Institute by developing it as Ayodhya, Ramayana and Indian Vedic Research Institute. “The government aims to connect the world with Ayodhya through the institute,” said officials.

“Another objective of the government behind the move is to connect all those countries, where Ramayana, or Ramlila, is staged and bind them in the thread of cultural unity. The institute will also facilitate employment to the people associated with this art,” said an official.

“It is noteworthy that the Ayodhya Research Institute, which has been operating under the Department of Culture since August 18, 1986, is to be developed as the International Ayodhya Ramayana and Vedic Research Institute. Ayodhya is famous all over the world because of Lord Ram’s association with the place. Shri Ram has gained prestige all over the world for establishing the foundation and moral values of Sanatan culture,” said an official statement.