Millions of Hindus across India lit up their homes and streets with lamps and fireworks as they celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on October 30, 2024. The day was not just about the traditional rituals; it also marked the magnificent "Deepotsav" festival in Ayodhya. Here, on the sacred banks of the Saryu River, participants broke records for both the number of clay lamps lit and the joyous atmosphere created.
For the occasion, approximately 2.51 million clay oil lamps, known as "diyas," were lit along the riverfront, setting a new Guinness World Record and surpassing last year’s record of 2.2 million. This ambitious feat symbolized the triumph of light over darkness and the victory of good over evil, themes central to Diwali festivities.
The event was led by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Enthusiastic crowds gathered as more than 30,000 volunteers, many of whom were college students, helped coordinate the lighting of the lamps. "More than 30,000 volunteers worked methodically to maintain the systematic pattern of burning lamps for the prescribed time," shared Dr. Pratibha Goyal, Vice Chancellor at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, reflecting the immense effort put forth.
The Chief Minister exuberantly stated, "This celebration is proof of double-engine government delivering on its promises," referencing the BJP leadership both at the state and national levels. The festivities were even more significant this year as they followed the consecration of the Ram Temple earlier this year, a long-awaited milestone for many Hindus.
Various colorful processions marked the day, including one where actors portraying Lord Ram, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshman were carried along. Helicopters showered flower petals on the participants, enhancing the celebratory spirit. Eighteen ornate tableaux showcased scenes from the epic Ramcharitmanas, weaving storytelling and religion seamlessly together for attendees to enjoy.
Diwali is considered the most important festival for Hindus. It involves lighting clay lamps, exchanging gifts, and coming together with loved ones. People also set off fireworks and perform rituals dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The night of Diwali is often characterized by merriment and spirituality as families gather to pray for prosperity.
A laser light show illustrating scenes from the Ramayana lit up the skies, accompanied by traditional folk performances and dance, with echoes of bhajans (devotional songs) resounding around. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with the smell of must-have festive sweets and the buzzing voices of families shopping for new clothes, decorations, and gifts.
While the joy radiated through the streets of Ayodhya, other cities participated enthusiastically too. Crowded markets were filled with shoppers acquiring flowers, sweets, and decorative items to adorn their homes for the festival. Sightings of families enjoying the festive spirit were apparent across the country, from shops buzzing with activity to pyrotechnics lighting up the night sky.
Diwali celebrations did, nevertheless, bring political undertones this year. Notably missing from the festivities was Awadhesh Prasad, the MP from Faizabad, who claimed he was not invited to the Deepotsav event, accusing the ruling BJP of politicizing the festival and excluding detractors.
His comments stirred discussions about how religious festivals like Diwali are increasingly being turned political, with sentiments echoing across different states. The reactions even sparked debates on social media platforms amid the vibrant celebrations.
Security was ramped up for the events, with extensive measures including paratroopers, bomb detectors, dog squads, and facial recognition technology deployed to maintain safety during the large-scale celebrations. This was necessary to mitigate any concerns surrounding public safety during such extensive gatherings.
This year’s Diwali festivities paint a picture of resilience and unity as affected families strive to make the best of the cherished time with family and friends. The vibe was infectious as neighbors stepped outside, sharing sweets and lighting their diyas together.
What’s more, the overarching importance of Diwali extends beyond mere celebrations. It’s seen as a time of renewal where good vibes are invited back home, friendships and relationships are rekindled, and the stress from daily life melts away at least for this festival week.
On the eve of Diwali, the streets of Ahmedabad also buzzed with celebratory excitement, as individuals took to illuminated roads decorated with colorful lights. Capturing the essence of community, the shared joy of Diwali brings together people from distinct backgrounds each year, fusing tradition with modernity as everyone engages with the spirit of the festival.
The fireworks display throughout major cities across India formed vivid silhouettes against the night sky and fueled the energy for days to come, as families prepared for Diwali dinner celebrations. This festive season is not just about the rituals; it is about reuniting with loved ones and forging bonds stronger than before.
Diwali will continue to resonate throughout the next few days as rituals like Bhai Dooj take place. It highlights the unique bond shared between brothers and sisters, emphasizing the festival's overarching themes of love, family, and tradition. With each flickering flame, stories and memories are passed down generations, making each celebration wholly unique yet harmoniously familiar.
