Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday, 2 November 2026, said that Ayodhya's Deepotsav is projecting India's values of sacrifice, dignity and dedication onto the global stage, describing the annual celebration as a revival of the country's eternal consciousness and cultural pride. The remarks came in a special message titled 'Yogi Ki Pati' (Yogi's Letter), issued ahead of the city's 10th grand Deepotsav.

Spiritual Significance of the Festival

Chief Minister Yogi said Ayodhya, regarded as the foremost among India's seven sacred cities, was eagerly awaiting its grandest edition yet. 'Deepotsav symbolises the journey from darkness to light, despair to hope, and faith to development. It is not merely a festival of lighting lamps, but a grand celebration of the revival of India's eternal consciousness and cultural pride,' he said.

Extending his wishes on the occasion associated with the return of Lord Shri Ram to Ayodhya, the Chief Minister said even a single flame teaches that one ray of light can spread new hope in the deepest darkness. He recalled the Ramayana episode in which Bharat renounced royal comforts and governed Ayodhya by placing Lord Ram's sacred footwear on the throne during his 14-year exile. 'This inspiring episode from the Ramayana teaches us that the true meaning of power is not authority, but responsibility,' Yogi said.

The Spectacle Along the Saryu

Describing the visual grandeur of the celebrations, the Chief Minister said that rows of lamps along the banks of the Saryu river and the illumination of Ram Ki Paidi with lakhs of earthen lamps create an enchanting spectacle — as if the Milky Way had descended upon Ayodhya. Drone-based aerial presentations and participation by artists from across the country further add to the divine grandeur of the festival, he said.

Faith as an Engine of Development

The Chief Minister also underscored the economic significance of Deepotsav, arguing that Uttar Pradesh has established a new identity as a state of festivals by making faith and public participation instruments of development. 'Where there is light, there is security. Where there is security, there are investment opportunities. Where there is investment, there is development. Where there is development, there are employment opportunities, happiness and prosperity,' he said.

Calling Deepotsav a confluence of faith and economy, he said the celebrations generate employment and income for potters, flower sellers, hotel operators and local traders. He also encouraged people to purchase lamps and other products made by local artisans to support their livelihoods.

A Call for Inclusive Celebrations

Chief Minister Yogi appealed to citizens to extend the joy of the festival to the less privileged. 'If there is an underprivileged family in your neighbourhood, illuminate their Diwali too, according to your means. Gift them earthen lamps, sweets and new clothes, and bring happiness into their lives. This is the true spirit of Deepotsav,' he said.

He called upon the youth to remain connected with positive energy and stay away from negativity, and emphasised cleanliness, saying that Goddess Lakshmi resides where hygiene is maintained. He invited citizens to visit Ayodhya with family and friends to witness the divine spectacle firsthand, as the holy city prepares to mark its 10th Deepotsav.