Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday attended the annual ‘Deepotsav’ celebrations in Ayodhya where lakhs of diyas light up the Saryu river bank. Addressing the gathering, the prime minister said Lord Ram was the inspiration behind his government’s motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas.
“Lord Ram is the inspiration behind Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas- he took everyone along, did not leave anyone behind… From the teachings of ‘Kartavya Bal’ by Lord Shri Ram, we have come up with the ‘Kartavya Path’ to honour his governance and establish our identity globally,” Modi said.
He said as we are celebrating ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava’, determination like Lord Ram will take country to new height. “Lord Ram’s ideals are the beacon of light for people aspiring for developed India in the next 25 years,” said the prime minister.
Modi attended the ‘aarti’ on the banks of the River Sarayu, after which the celebration started. Over 15 lakh earthen lamps were lit by more than 22,000 volunteers at Ram ki Paidi near the river bank. There was also a laser show, 3D projection mapping show and fireworks. Ramlila will also be staged by cultural troupes from other countries and states.
Earlier, Modi offered prayers at the Ram temple performed a symbolic coronation of Lord Ram. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel accompanied the prime minister.
Elaborate security arrangements have been made at Ayodhya for the Deepotsav. “In all, 4,000 cops will be on security and safety duty for the event. Crowd management is a major priority, so that the devotees, tourists and artists do not face any problem,” Ayodhya Senior Superintendent of Police Prashant Verma had said in the morning.
