Ayodhya: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan on Saturday inaugurated the 10th edition of Deepotsav 2026 at Ram Ki Paidi in Ayodhya, where millions of earthen lamps illuminated the ghats along the Saryu river.
The Vice-President witnessed Ramayana-themed cultural performances and musical fireworks before participating in the Saryu Aarti at Naya Ghat. Earlier, he offered prayers at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and attended special prayers at Ram Katha Park.
Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan said Deepotsav had evolved into a celebration of public participation, reflecting India’s collective faith and devotion. He recalled that the festival began in 2017 with around 1.7 lakh lamps and crossed 26 lakh in 2025. This year’s edition aimed to light more than 30 lakh diyas at Ram Ki Paidi and over 70 lakh across Ayodhya.
He said the celebrations had created livelihood opportunities for potters, artisans, rural women, performers and people associated with tourism and transport.
Highlighting the use of technology, he referred to more than 2,100 indigenous drones depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the participation of around 1,000 artists in cultural programmes.
Urging young people to draw inspiration from the Ramayana, Radhakrishnan said India must embrace science, innovation and modern aspirations while remaining rooted in its civilisational values.
Describing Ayodhya as an example of ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’, he highlighted improvements in roads, pilgrimage facilities and rail and air connectivity.
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, ministers and religious leaders attended the event.
