CM Yogi's Challenge at Ayodhya Deepotsav: 'Those Who Ordered Firing Should Come Seeking Forgiveness'

Grand 'Deepotsav 2026' Celebrated in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, witnessed the grand culmination of 'Deepotsav 2026' on Saturday, where Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered historic and political messages in his address. The sacred city was adorned as a unique confluence of faith, culture, and modern development, with the glow of millions of lamps along the banks of the Saryu River bringing alive memories of the Treta Yuga.

During this auspicious occasion, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath targeted those who had once ordered firing on Ram devotees. He declared, "Those who ordered firing on Ram devotees, they should come to Ayodhya, but they must come seeking forgiveness." The Chief Minister emphasized the sanctity and purity of the Ram Katha, stating that some individuals, due to their unruly tendencies, attempt to defile the sacredness of these narratives.

Transformation of Ayodhya Highlighted

He further remarked that today's Ayodhya has undergone a significant transformation. Where electricity was once available for only three hours, it is now establishing its identity as a 'Smart City' as well as a 'Solar City' of the country. Streets like Dharmapath, Bhaktipath, Shriram Path, and Janmabhoomi Path are now attracting global attention.

He expressed satisfaction that for a long time, Ayodhya was neglected, and attempts were made to deny the existence of Lord Ram. However, he noted that at least now, his existence is being acknowledged, which he considers an ideological victory. The Chief Minister's statements underscored a powerful message of vindication and resurgence for the city and its spiritual significance.

Grand Procession and Coronation of Ram Lalla

The Deepotsav commenced with a magnificent procession originating from Saket College, filling Ramnagri with devotion through tableaux based on the Ramayana, folk dances, and chants of 'Jai Shri Ram'. Over 500 artists from 14 states showcased their diverse cultures in this procession.

The procession offered a glimpse of both ancient culture and the development of modern Ayodhya, including models displaying cleanliness and digital progress. The procession reached Ramkatha Park, where the main Deepotsav program was held. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in the role of Guru Vashishth, along with his associates, welcomed the depictions of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, and Shatrughan, who arrived by helicopter representing the Pushpak Viman.

Subsequently, Lord Ram's representation arrived at Ramkatha Park on a chariot, which was personally pulled by the Chief Minister and his ministers, a tradition that emotionally connected devotees with the memories of Ram Rajya.

Divine Aarti and Coronation Ceremony

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath performed the aarti of Lord Sitaram's depictions. Following this, prominent saints performed their coronation.

Remembering the Treta Yuga

From the stage of the Deepotsav, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath invoked the grandeur of Ayodhya and the memories of the Treta Yuga. Quoting verses from Goswami Tulsidas, he stated that today's Ayodhya is reminiscent of that Treta Yuga when Lord Shri Ram returned to Ayodhya after completing his 14-year exile.

He also recalled the shower of flowers from the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the time of the installation of Ram Lalla. The Chief Minister asserted that the power of Ayodhya and the consciousness of Shri Ram are, in essence, the consciousness, culture, and values of India. Lord Shri Ram is the lifeblood and self-respect of the Indian nation.

The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak. The illumination of millions of lamps adorning the ghats of the Saryu transformed the Ramnagri into a spectacular spectacle in the evening, symbolizing India's rich cultural heritage and its current development. This grand celebration instilled a sense of pride and joy among millions of devotees from India and abroad.