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Uttar Pradesh: SP’s MP Not Invited To Ayodhya Deepostsav, Blasts BJP ‘Control’

October 30, 2024, 3:54 pm

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Faizabad MP Awadhesh Prasad expressed disappointment over not receiving an invitation to Ayodhya’s Deepotsav, an annual Diwali celebration in Ayodhya, and criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for what he describes as the “politicisation” of Hindu festivals. Speaking on the day of the event, Prasad said, “BJP is politicising our festivals too. I hope this will be a festival of brotherhood” and emphasised that Ayodhya’s celebrations should not be reduced to a single party’s narrative. Frustrated by the lack of communication from the administration, he stated, “This festival doesn’t belong to any one community… I have not got any pass or invitation for Deepotsav.”

Prasad’s exclusion has drawn attention due to his symbolic victory over BJP’s incumbent Lallu Singh in Faizabad, a constituency that includes Ayodhya. His election is significant because Ayodhya has been a central node of the BJP’s Hindutva-driven politics, especially with the recent inauguration of the Ram Temple. Notably, Prasad claims a deeper connection to Lord Ram, challenging BJP’s exclusivity in Ayodhya’s political and religious discourse. He stated, “No one can be a greater devotee of Ram than me… My grandfather, father, brother, and father-in-law all have Ram in their names. I am a native of Ayodhya, so who could be closer to Lord Ram than me?.”

In addition to his critique of the festival’s perceived politicization, Prasad has repeatedly drawn attention to development issues impacting Ayodhya’s residents, underscoring how ongoing infrastructure projects often disrupt local life and tradition without adequate compensation. “Many shops were demolished without compensation, and farmers’ lands are under threat from large projects,” Prasad explained, pointing to local frustrations that contributed to his electoral win. For many, he argues, Ayodhya’s development under BJP administration has benefited mainly tourists and newcomers while sidelining the concerns of long-term residents.

Ayodhya’s Deepotsav, organized by the Uttar Pradesh government, has grown into a massive celebration over the years, culminating this year with plans to light over 2.8 million diyas along the Saryu River. Prasad’s exclusion from such an event highlights the broader political tensions following his unexpected victory in Ayodhya. As a Dalit candidate, Prasad’s victory over BJP’s two-term incumbent MP Lallu Singh came after a targeted campaign by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav to consolidate Dalit, Muslim, and OBC votes. The SP’s slogan for Prasad’s campaign, “Na Mathura, na Kashi, abki baar Awadhesh Pasi” (Neither Mathura nor Kashi, this time it’s Awadhesh Pasi), emphasised his status as an outsider who could bridge Ayodhya’s communities despite BJP’s traditional dominance.

Prasad’s campaign highlighted a distinction between his version of devotion to Lord Ram and the BJP’s portrayal of Ayodhya as their political stronghold. Prasad argued, “The Supreme Court paved the way for the temple in Ayodhya and the BJP made its narrative around it ignoring the day-to-day real issues hitting the people of Ayodhya on the ground.” He added that the BJP’s focus on the Ram Temple overshadowed essential concerns like “unemployment, price rise, farmers’ distress, and the stray cattle menace,” underscoring that his victory represented the voices of those disillusioned with BJP’s development agenda.

Ayodhya’s shifting political landscape reflects a larger ideological shift in Uttar Pradesh, where SP’s strategic alignment of OBC, Dalit, and Muslim voters has posed a formidable challenge to the BJP. Prasad’s victory and his outspoken critiques of the BJP’s “saffronisation” of festivals and religious symbols underscore the broader pushback against BJP’s policies and narratives. As he remarked, “It was not me but the people of Ayodhya who have been fighting against the saffron might in Faizabad.”

Also read: Diwali Revelry: How Delhi’s Rich Gamble Big With Cars And Real Estate

Prasad’s stance, combined with his call for a more inclusive approach to Ayodhya’s religious and cultural celebrations, has introduced a new dimension to the city’s evolving political and social discourse. As the Deepotsav’s record-breaking festivities unfold, the debate surrounding Ayodhya’s identity and representation in Uttar Pradesh politics is likely to continue.

Ayodhya Deepotsav 2023 to Illuminate City with 28 Lakh Diyas and 18 Grand Tableaux

October 28, 2024, 4:21 pm

Ayodhya is preparing for an extraordinary Deepotsav celebration this year, set to feature 28 lakh diyas and 18 colorful tableaux depicting key events from the life of Lord Ram. The event highlights the rich cultural heritage of Ayodhya, with new additions emphasizing sustainability and artistic diversity.

18 Tableaux Depicting Lord Ram’s Life

The festivities will include 18 detailed tableaux illustrating pivotal moments from Lord Ram’s life, including his marriage to Sita, his exile, Bharat Milap, and his victorious return to Ayodhya. Of the 18 tableaux, 11 are being created by the Information Department, while seven are crafted by the Tourism Department, showcasing iconic scenes from the Tulsikrit Ram Charit Manas, including the Bal Kand, Ayodhya Kand, and Lanka Kand. Notably, all tableaux are being constructed with degradable materials as part of a green initiative.

Record-Breaking 28 Lakh Diyas to Illuminate Ayodhya

For the first time, 28 lakh diyas will be lit across 55 ghats along the Sarayu River, aiming to set a Guinness World Record. According to Divisional Commissioner Gaurav Dayal, arrangements include 1,100 people performing a grand aarti, a mesmerizing drone show, and cultural events starting on October 28, leading up to the main celebrations on October 30.

This year, international artists from six countries will participate in an exclusive Ramlila performance on October 30 at Ram Katha Park. The event is a joint effort by Ayodhya’s tourism, cultural, and information departments, promising a grand celebration filled with cultural programs, exhibitions, and large-scale volunteer involvement. This Deepotsav will mark a special Diwali, being the first held at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, where diyas will also be lit inside the temple.

“Ram Temple’s construction is reflection of Indian society’s maturity”: PM Modi

January 22, 2024, 3:34 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects the maturity of Indian society. Speaking at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, he described the moment of unveiling the Ram Lalla idol as a celebration and a reflection of humility. He highlighted the historical significance, noting that the construction symbolizes peace, patience, harmony, and the integration of the country.

The Prime Minister mentioned a past sentiment that the construction of the temple would ignite conflict, emphasizing that the temple is, in fact, a symbol of peace and coordination within Indian society. He characterized the Ayodhya temple as representing national consciousness in the form of Lord Ram, embodying human values and the highest ideals. According to PM Modi, the temple is not just a place of worship but also a manifestation of India’s vision, philosophy, and direction.

Expressing gratitude to the Supreme Court for its verdict on November 9, 2019, PM Modi acknowledged the questioning of Lord Ram’s existence and credited the court for delivering justice. He stated that the moment after the Pran Pratishtha is divine and holiest of all, with devotees across the world deeply feeling its significance. The Prime Minister also shared his experience of listening to the Ramayana in different languages and states, emphasizing that Lord Ram resides in everyone and is experienced by people of every era.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal attends bhandaras on Ram Lalla Pran Pratistha day

January 22, 2024, 3:28 pm

As people nationwide commemorated the ‘Pran Pratistha’ of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal actively participated in ‘bhandaras’ organized across the national capital. In posts on X, Kejriwal shared pictures of himself worshipping at a temple and later engaging in the community-wide food distribution program, known as ‘bhandaras,’ conducted on special occasions.

Offering his congratulations and best wishes on this sacred occasion in another X post, Kejriwal highlighted the historic significance of the Pran Pratistha ceremony of Lord Ram in the newly constructed Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya. The ceremony, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took place at 12:29 pm, following a seven-day ritual that began on January 16, 2024.

The Pran Pratistha ceremony saw the participation of representatives from major spiritual and religious sects, along with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including various tribal communities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering, expressing joy that Ram Lalla would no longer reside in a tent but in the grand temple.

“After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations, and penances, our Prabhu Ram has come,” remarked the Prime Minister. He added, “Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple.”

Following the Pran Pratistha rituals, the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. The temple, constructed in traditional Nagara style, boasts dimensions of 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height, supported by 392 pillars and 44 doors. The intricately sculpted pillars and walls showcase depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses, with the main sanctum sanctorum housing the idol of Shri Ramlalla.

Uttarakhand CM Dhami releases annual calendar on occasion of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha

January 22, 2024, 2:07 pm

Following the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya on Monday, devotees outside the Wadala Ram Temple in Mumbai expressed their joy by celebrating the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla through dancing and bursting crackers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present as he led rituals during the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.

The ceremony took place in an atmosphere imbued with a profound sense of devotion. Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters added to the solemnity by showering flower petals over the premises of Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya during the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol. Devotees and guests joined in chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ to celebrate the occasion. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were among the dignitaries present at the ceremony.

The historic event attracted representatives from major spiritual and religious sects across the country, and people from diverse backgrounds, including various tribal communities, also attended the ceremony. Prime Minister Modi is set to address this distinguished gathering during the occasion. As part of the event, PM Modi will engage with shramjeevis associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir and visit Kuber Tila, where the ancient temple of Lord Shiv has been restored.

The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, built-in traditional Nagara style, features dimensions of 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height. Supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors, the pillars and walls of the temple are adorned with intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at the ground floor, the idol of Shri Ramlalla representing the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram has been enshrined.

The Mandir complex comprises five Mandaps (Halls) – Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. Additionally, a historic Well (Sita koop) dating back to ancient times is situated near the Mandir. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, Kuber Tila houses the restored ancient temple of Bhagwan Shiv, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

The foundation of the Mandir is constructed with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), providing the appearance of artificial rock, with no use of iron throughout. To guard against ground moisture, a 21-foot-high plinth has been constructed using granite. The Mandir complex includes facilities such as a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station. The construction of the Mandir incorporates traditional and indigenous technology of the country.

100 chartered planes to land in Ayodhya on January 22: CM Yogi

January 11, 2024, 3:54 pm

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on Thursday that approximately 100 chartered planes are scheduled to land in Ayodhya on January 22 for the ‘Pran Pratishtha Day’ ceremony. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for providing Uttar Pradesh with its fourth international airport, inaugurating the Ayodhya Airport on December 30, 2023. Adityanath added, “I am grateful to PM Narendra Modi for giving the fourth international airport to Uttar Pradesh. The Ayodhya airport was inaugurated on December 30th.”

During the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi, at a public event, highlighted the significance of Maharishi Valmiki’s Ramayana as a path of knowledge connecting people to Shri Ram. Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister VK Singh, and other senior officials launched the first tri-weekly flights between Ahmedabad and Ayodhya. Chief Minister Adityanath was the recipient of the first tri-weekly flight’s boarding pass.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia mentioned, “PM Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Ayodhya Airport and Railway Station on December 30.” He further added, “We started the first flight between Ayodhya and Delhi on December 30th, operated by IndiGo and Air India Express. Today we are going to connect Ayodhya with Ahmedabad.”

As the first flight for Ayodhya departed from Ahmedabad, passengers at the Ahmedabad airport arrived dressed as Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita, and Hanuman. The Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, developed at a cost exceeding Rs 1,450 crore, can initially handle 10 lakh passengers annually. After the second phase, it is expected to accommodate 60 lakh commuters annually. The airport’s terminal building, covering an area of 6500 sq m, is designed to serve about 10 lakh passengers each year. Its facade mirrors the temple architecture of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

Security responsibilities for Maharishi Valmiki International Airport were handed over to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). To ensure comprehensive safety and traffic management, the Uttar Pradesh government implemented measures such as the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS), integrating 1500 public CCTV cameras across the city. Ayodhya’s yellow zone will feature 10,715 AI-based cameras with face recognition technology, integrated with ITMS for enhanced monitoring and security.

Emergency response capabilities have been reinforced with the deployment of teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). SDRF teams will conduct regular boat patrols with a focus on safety measures, and an arrangement of four cruise boats by January 20 will enhance water surveillance during the celebrations.

Ayodhya Railway Station will experience heightened security by the Railway Protection Force from January 27 to February 15. Fire brigade provisions in all tent cities, citywide police patrols, and stringent verification procedures for external individuals are part of the overall security plan. An Anti-Drone System, overseen by the Special Security Force (SSF), adds an extra layer of security.

The public is advised that only those invited by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust will be allowed entry from January 20 to 22, with road and train arrangements in place. A primary hospital with 10 beds has been established in the tent city, emphasizing cleanliness measures. As Ayodhya prepares for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Temple on January 22, which includes Vedic rituals beginning on January 16, these measures are implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directive for a ‘Kumbh model of cleanliness’ underscores the commitment to presenting Ayodhya, known as ‘Ramnagari,’ as the cleanest and most beautiful city during these significant celebrations.

Yajurveda verses recitation commences in Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex

January 11, 2024, 1:09 pm

The recitation of Yajurveda verses commenced at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex in Ayodhya on Thursday, and it is scheduled to continue for the next four days. To oversee this auspicious event, 101 Veda Pathis have been invited, with two pavilions specifically erected for the Yajurveda recitation within the Ram Mandir complex. Believers hold that the chanting of Yajurveda verses is potent in dispelling negative energies, a prerequisite before commencing any spiritual Vedic activities at a given location.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared on Thursday that a significant number of chartered planes, totaling 100, are expected to land in Ayodhya on January 22 for the ‘Pran Pratishtha Day’ ceremony. He expressed, “Around 100 chartered planes will land at the Ayodhya airport on 22nd January to attend the ‘pran pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Temple. This will also show us the path of checking the potential of the Ayodhya airport.”

The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Temple is scheduled for January 22, and the Vedic rituals leading up to the consecration of Ram Lalla will commence on January 16, a week prior to the main event. Priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit from Varanasi is entrusted with the primary rituals of the consecration ceremony on January 22. Ayodhya will observe the Amrit Mahotsav from January 14 to January 22, culminating in the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple, an event that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend.

During his first visit of the year 2024 to Ayodhya on Tuesday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to implement the ‘Kumbh model of cleanliness’ in the city. Emphasizing the importance of cleanliness, he stated, “Dust should not be visible on the roads, and toilets must be cleaned daily.” The objective is to present Ayodhya, also known as ‘Ramnagari,’ as the cleanest and most beautiful city during this momentous occasion.

Ayodhya Set to Illuminate with Ramkatha Festival: A Month-Long Celebration Commences Today

January 8, 2024, 4:46 pm

Ayodhya, the sacred city revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama, is poised for a month-long celebration of the Ramkatha Festival, an epic narration of the Ramayana. Initiated on January 8th, the festival will extend until March 24th, featuring renowned spiritual figures recounting the timeless tale of Lord Rama’s life and teachings.

Organized by the Culture Department under the guidance of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, this grand event aims to immerse devotees in the essence of the Ramayana and provide a platform for spiritual enlightenment. The festival’s venue is the Kagbhusundi stage within the picturesque Ramkatha Park, offering a serene setting for sermons and lectures.

The opening seven days of the festival will witness the esteemed Chinmayanand Bapu captivating the audience with his storytelling prowess. He will bring to life various key events from the Ramayana, commencing with the pious life of King Dasharatha and concluding with the joyous wedding ceremony of Lord Rama and Sita. Each day will focus on specific episodes, including the birth of Rama, his childhood adventures, the pivotal bow-breaking ceremony, and the divine union of Rama and Sita.

Following Chinmayanand Bapu’s seven-day recital, other renowned Katha Vyas will take the stage, offering their unique perspectives on the Ramayana. Starting from January 15th, spiritual leaders like Mahant Devkinandan Thakur ji of Mathura will continue the storytelling, ensuring that the wisdom and inspiration of the Ramayana resonate throughout the month.

A significant highlight scheduled for January 22 is the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the new idol of Ram Lalla at the sanctum sanctorum of the upcoming Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to perform this ceremony, and he has urged citizens to light a ‘Shri Ram Jyoti’ in their homes and celebrate Deepavali on January 22.

The historic inauguration of the Ram Temple on January 22 has sparked extensive preparations, drawing dignitaries and people from all walks of life. The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust has decided to enthrone Ram Lalla at the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple at noon on January 22.

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, holds immense spiritual, historical, and cultural significance for the people of India. The Ramkatha Festival stands as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage and devotion surrounding the epic saga of the Ramayana.

PM Modi Urges Nation to Celebrate Deepavali on January 22, Consecration Day of Ayodhya Temple

December 30, 2023, 4:39 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a public gathering in Ayodhya, called upon the citizens to light a ‘Shri Ram Jyoti’ in their homes and celebrate Deepavali on January 22. The date marks the consecration of the idol of Lord Ram at the Grand Temple in Ayodhya. PM Modi, addressing the gathering, emphasized the historic significance of January 22, a day eagerly awaited worldwide.

Before his address, PM Modi inaugurated the newly-built Ayodhya Airport, redeveloped Ayodhya Railway Station, and flagged off new Amrit Bharat trains and Vande Bharat trains. Additionally, he unveiled multiple development projects totalling more than Rs 15,700 crore in the state. The Prime Minister noted the historical importance of December 30, linking it to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s flag hoisting in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 1943.

Reflecting on the day’s events, PM Modi stated that India is enhancing its pilgrimage sites and embracing digital technology. The infrastructure development in Ayodhya, including the airport and railway station, is aligned with the vision to make Ayodhya a hub not only for the Awadh region but for the entire Uttar Pradesh.

PM Modi expressed joy over the naming of Ayodhya Airport after Maharishi Valmiki, emphasizing the significance of introducing Lord Ram through the Ramayana. He highlighted that the Ayodhya Dham railway station, with a present capacity for 10-15 thousand people, is set to accommodate 60 thousand commuters daily after complete development.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of preserving heritage, stating that India’s progress is rooted in its traditions. He underscored that the campaign to make India a developed country gains new energy from Ayodhya, where Lord Ram’s presence has transitioned from a tent to a permanent structure, symbolizing progress for both Ram Lala and the nation’s poor.

CM Yogi Adityanath appeals to opposition to permit the assembl’sy smooth conduct of proceedings

November 28, 2023, 2:14 pm

Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, greeted all of the lawmakers who attended the winter session of the Assembly on Tuesday and urged the opposition to offer assistance in order to ensure a smooth operation.

CM Yogi Adityanath said, “This is the winter session. Legislative work will be completed along with the supplementary budget in this session. We are taking forward the discussion under the parliamentary democratic system. In the last 6 years, the proceedings have progressed in a dignified manner. Earlier, an incident of physical assault had also taken place in this house. The responsibility to conduct the proceedings in the house is on everyone so I appeal to everyone especially the opposition to maintain dignity inside the house.”

Ashutosh Tandon was the Minister of Urban Development, Overall Urban Development, Urban Employment, and Poverty Alleviation in the Government of Uttar Pradesh. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath offered his condolences on his passing.

“In 2014 Ashutosh Tandon won from Lucknow East. In 2017, and then again in 2022 he became a member of the assembly for the third term. From 2017 to 2022 he also worked as a cabinet minister. As an able politician he played an important role in Ayodhya Deepotsav, One District One Medical college programme and in the welfare of the cities he played an important role,” the Chief Minister said in his condolence message.

Yogi Government Allocates Rs 200 Crore for Lakshman Path to Boost Ayodhya Connectivity

November 13, 2023, 6:55 pm

The Yogi Adityanath-led administration in Uttar Pradesh is planning to build Lakshman Path, a new four-lane road linking Guptarghat and Rajghat, as part of its overall development plan for Ayodhya. This project is part of a larger endeavour to build a four-lane highway to the holy city.

The construction of the 13-kilometre-long Ram Path between Naya Ghat and Sahadatganj is already in progress, adding to the network that includes Janmabhoomi Path, Bhakti Path, and Dharma Path.

Lakshman Path, named after Lord Shri Ram’s younger brother Lakshman, is designed to span approximately 12 kilometres, running parallel to the Udaya Harishchandra Ghat embankment. The path is expected to have a width of 18 meters, enhancing connectivity and infrastructure in the region.

DM Nitish Kumar emphasized that a comprehensive action plan has been prepared for this alternative route, with an estimated cost of around Rs 200 crore. The proposal has been submitted to the government for approval, and once granted, construction on Lakshman Path will commence.

These infrastructural initiatives are consistent with the larger objective of improving accessibility and connection to Ayodhya, hence contributing to the holistic development of the holy city.

Ayodhya Deepotsav lights over 22.23 lakh diyas, creating a new Guinness World Record

November 12, 2023, 9:01 am

Ayodhya has accomplished a remarkable feat by lighting over 22.23 lakh “Diyas” (earthen lamps) during “Deepotsav 2023,” setting a new Guinness world record. On Diwali eve of last year, the temple town broke its own world record of 15.76 lakh Diyas lit. According to a release, “Deepotsav 2023″ has been inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records following the drone-assisted lamp counting.

The Uttar Pradesh Government’s ‘Grand Deepotsav’ was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records after representatives from the organisation witnessed and acknowledged the achievement of lighting an unprecedented number of lamps simultaneously at a single location.
Teachers from Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University and its affiliated colleges, as well as teachers and students from inter-colleges and volunteer organisations, all contributed significantly to the creation of the record.

The resounding chant of “Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Jai Ram” was heard as over 22.23 lakh earthen lamps were lit one by one as soon as the appointed time for doing so began. The moment Guinness Book of World Records representatives announced the creation of the record, the entire city of Ayodhya echoed with the slogan, “Jai Shri Ram.” Following the count, this data was provided by Guinness Book of World Records Executive Swapnil Dangarikar and Consultant Nischal Barot.