Ayodhya, the holy city of Lord Ram, is buzzing with energy as it prepares for the grand Deepotsav celebration under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The upcoming festival, which marks the first celebration since the consecration of the Shri Ramlala idol, is expected to draw in devotees and visitors from across India and the globe. With over 28 lakh diyas to be lit, this year's Deepotsav is set to surpass previous records and leave a spiritual impact on all those in attendance.
Introduction
Hinduism, an ancient religion rich in rituals and traditions, holds a deep connection to science. Many practices performed in Hindu ceremonies have underlying scientific principles that provide physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. The upcoming Deepotsav celebration in Ayodhya, a renowned pilgrimage site associated with Lord Ram, epitomizes this scientific basis.
Deepotsav: A Celebration of Purification and Illumination
Deepotsav, the "Festival of Lights," is an annual event held in Ayodhya to commemorate the victory of Lord Ram over the demon king Ravana. The festival is marked by the lighting of millions of earthen lamps, known as diyas, which create a breathtaking spectacle. This ritual symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the purification of the environment.
Scientific Basis of Lighting Diyas
The burning of diyas releases essential oils and antioxidants into the atmosphere. These substances possess antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping purify the surroundings and promote respiratory health. Additionally, the light emitted by diyas has calming and soothing effects on the mind, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Other Hindu Rituals with Scientific Basis
1. Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): This ancient practice involves a series of synchronized body movements and breathing techniques that promote blood circulation, flexibility, and hormonal balance.
2. Yoga: Yoga poses and breathing exercises enhance flexibility, strength, and balance while promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
3. Meditation: Regular meditation has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance cognitive abilities.
4. Chanting Mantras: The rhythmic repetition of mantras creates vibrations that stimulate specific brain areas, promoting emotional well-being and spiritual growth.
Top 5 FAQs Related to Ayodhya's Deepotsav
1. What is the significance of Deepotsav?
It commemorates Lord Ram's victory over Ravana and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the purification of the environment.
2. How many diyas will be lit this year?
Over 28 lakh diyas are expected to be lit, surpassing previous records.
3. Who is leading the celebration?
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is leading the Deepotsav celebration.
4. What is the expected number of attendees?
Devotees and visitors from India and around the world are expected to attend the event.
5. What are the highlights of the celebration?
In addition to the lighting of diyas, the celebration will include cultural performances, religious ceremonies, and a grand display of fireworks.
Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, is more than just a fancy decoration ritual. It holds deep significance in Hindu beliefs, honoring Lord Yama and seeking protection from negative energies in the coming year. The arrangement and number of diyas have symbolic meanings and a specific auspicious time for lighting them on this particular day. The act of lighting diyas on Narak Chaturdashi is a powerful chain of emotions that brings forth resilience, wisdom, and inner strength, leading to harmony and auspiciousness in the household.
On the occasion of Deepotsav, Ayodhya made history by setting two new Guinness World Records - lighting over 26 lakh diyas and hosting the largest-ever Saryu aarti. The event was organized by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department and the Ayodhya District Administration, with the participation of over 30,000 volunteers. The Guinness World Records officials commended the efforts and stated that it was an honor to witness such a grand and spectacular display. The city of Ayodhya also celebrated Diwali with a drone show and a Ram Leela performance, making the event even more special.
As the country gears up for the festival of lights, various states have announced school holiday dates to allow students and teachers to participate in Diwali and other related celebrations. Some states are offering a five-day break, while others have extended the off period to almost two weeks. This break not only gives students time to celebrate with family, but also allows for preparation and participation in other cultural and religious festivities.
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Dhanteras, also known as the festival of lights, falls on October 18th this year. To celebrate this auspicious day, people follow various rituals such as worshipping Lord Dhanvantari and Kubera and lighting diyas in the name of Yamaraj. According to traditional beliefs, performing these rituals with a pure heart and following prescribed customs can bring wealth, prosperity, and happiness into one's household. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these beliefs.
The much-awaited festival of Diwali is just around the corner and preparations are already underway. According to the 2025 calendar, the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat for Diwali has been announced to be on October 20. This auspicious day brings with it an opportunity for families to gather and worship Goddess Lakshmi for blessings of prosperity and good luck. The five-day festival, beginning with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj, each day holds a significant spiritual meaning and is eagerly awaited by devotees.
Just days before the festival of lights, Delhi-NCR was brought to a standstill as severe traffic congestion struck the region. The festive rush, combined with ongoing roadwork and market zones bustling with Diwali shoppers, resulted in major delays and gridlock across the city. In response, the Delhi Traffic Police issued a strong advisory and took several measures to handle the traffic overload and prioritize safety. As the weekend and Diwali shopping continue, commuters are reminded to plan their journeys carefully to avoid getting stuck in the chaos.
As festive celebrations pick up pace in the national capital, Delhi Traffic Police is urging people to plan their travel in advance due to widespread traffic disruptions. Ongoing road repairs and broken sewer lines have added to the traffic woes, prompting the police to cancel leaves and deploy personnel to handle the growing Diwali rush. Many major intersections have experienced bottlenecks, and motorists are advised to follow diversion routes and check live updates before stepping out.
Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. This year, Diwali falls on October 20, with Lakshmi Puja being the main ritual dedicated to Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The Amavasya Tithi, which marks the new moon, is considered the most auspicious time for the Puja and falls between 3.44 pm on October 20 and 5.54 pm on October 21. Diwali is celebrated across India and in many countries with Indian-origin communities, with families coming together to light diyas, offer prayers, and prepare sweets and offerings for the goddess. Different cities have their own auspicious timings for the Puja, with Delhi's Pradosh Kaal being the most significant.
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