Ayodhya Breaks Two Guinness World Records with 26.17 Lakh Diyas and Largest Aarti Ceremony During Diwali Deepotsav

The grand Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya began at 5 pm on Sunday, marking a historic occasion for the holy city.

Ayodhya witnessed an unprecedented display during the annual Deepotsav festivities along the Saryu River banks, setting two remarkable world records simultaneously.

An astonishing 26.17 lakh diyas illuminated the riverbanks in perfect unison, while 2,128 individuals performed a coordinated 'aarti' ceremony, both achievements officially entering the record books.

According to the Uttar Pradesh government, Guinness World Records representatives were present to verify these accomplishments, using drone technology to accurately count the oil lamps.

The celebrations extended from 5 pm until 8 pm, featuring not only the record-breaking lamp lighting but also a magnificent 'aarti' ceremony, captivating light and sound performances, and spectacular fireworks displays.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally welcomed saints and religious leaders in Ayodhya before the festivities commenced.

The Chief Minister participated actively in the ceremonies, performing 'aarti' for performers dressed as Lord Ram, Mata Sita, and Lakshman, and ceremonially pulling the symbolic 'Pushpak Vimaan' chariot carrying these artistes.

Rajesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner of Ayodhya, informed ANI, "Our preparations are complete. The entire procession rehearsal was conducted yesterday evening. 33,000 volunteers are involved in lighting diyas during this festival of lights. All volunteers are at their assigned sectors preparing the lamps. Police forces and magistrates have already been deployed."

Kumar added, "Artistes from five different countries have arrived to perform Ramlila, which will continue through the night."

Volunteers from numerous colleges and universities collaborated to surpass the previous year's record by illuminating over 26 lakh diyas across the city.

The official count revealed that 26,17,215 diyas brightened Ram Ki Paidi and 56 ghats along the river. The UP Department of Tourism, Ayodhya administration, and Rammanohar Lohia Avadh University jointly received the Guinness record for the largest display of oil lamps ever assembled.

Additionally, the tourism department, district administration, and the Saryu Aarti Samiti in Ayodhya collectively received the Guinness recognition for organizing the largest number of people performing 'aarti' simultaneously in one location.