On the day of Prabhu Shri Rama’s return to Ayodhya, as the sun set, it marked not just the beginning of the night but the arrival of a new era, with countless diyas flickering to life throughout the city. This warm, golden glow transformed Ayodhya, creating a sense of unity and festivity among its residents. This year we will mark the eighth year since the revival of the Deepotsav festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm and splendour under Hon'ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Let’s explore how the modern celebration of Deepotsav in Ayodhya beautifully combines the rich stories of our history with the vibrant festivities of today, making it a truly special occasion for everyone. From Uttar Pradesh to Utsav Pradesh Since 2017, Uttar Pradesh has been on a transformative journey, shedding its past image of 'Gunda Raj' and embracing the identity of 'Utsav Pradesh.' The celebration of festivals like Deepotsav is central to this change, as they bring people together from all walks of life, promoting a warm sense of unity and pride in our rich cultural heritage. The Deepotsav allows for a more immersive experience filled with cultural performances and community engagement, with thousands of artists from all around the country showcasing their talents. The celebration attracts participants from various regions, creating a vibrant atmosphere that promotes brotherhood and unity among people. This year, in a beautiful gesture of solidarity, 150 tribal representatives from Jharkhand will join as volunteers, lighting lamps along the ghats of the Holy River Saryu. Their presence emphasises that Deepotsav is not just a festival, but a heartfelt celebration of togetherness which also symbolises the victory of Dharm over Evil as Prabhu Shri Ram returns to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating Ravan. The grandeur of Deepotsav celebrations In 2017, approximately 171,000 diyas were lit, drawing around 150,000 tourists and creating a unique experience that continues to attract visitors from around the globe. Looking ahead to 2024, the government plans to take this celebration to even greater heights, aiming to light a staggering 25 lakh diyas, with the help of thousands of volunteers, which will set a new Guinness world record. The celebration of Deepotsav has also crossed borders with representatives from 60 countries participating in 2023, up from just 2 in 2018. This remarkable growth of Deepotsav has significantly boosted tourism, not only enhancing Ayodhya's profile but also contributing to the overall increase in tourism in Uttar Pradesh. As the festival gets international attention, it is attracting more visitors to the state, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions. Government support and infrastructure development A major part of this success can be attributed to the Hon'ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's effort to make the celebration. The budget allocated for the festival skyrocketed from ₹24 crore in 2017 to ₹241 crore in 2023. This investment has enabled vital infrastructure developments, such as the inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, the renovation of the railway station and the beautification of the ghats. These improvements not only help Ayodhya accommodate more visitors but also make life easier for local residents. Better transportation and facilities have boosted the economy by creating jobs and attracting more businesses. Overall, the infrastructure development during Deepotsav has strengthened both the community and the local economy while preserving Ayodhya's cultural charm. Support to the local economy The Deepotsav celebration in Ayodhya has become a crucial source of support for the local economy, benefiting everyone from potters to the hospitality sector. This festival attracts a large number of tourists, generating significant revenue for local vendors and boosting sectors like transportation and hospitality. During Deepotsav, the high demand for diyas greatly supports potters' livelihoods while also benefiting the local producers of sarson oil, as it is traditionally used to light these diyas. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh government's 'Vocal for Local' initiative encourages visitors to purchase indigenous goods, further strengthening local sellers and entrepreneurs. This collective effort not only celebrates our culture but also encourages economic growth within the community. Conclusion: A symbol of hope and unity The journey of Deepotsav in Ayodhya is a wonderful example of how our ancient stories and modern celebrations can come together beautifully. By connecting the rich traditions of our past with the lively spirit of modern-day celebrations, the festival has become a symbol of hope, unity, and pride in our culture. As Uttar Pradesh continues to change for the better, Deepotsav shines as a bright example of this new identity, preserving traditional values while embracing development and progress.