Lucknow: Ayodhya is gearing up for a grand and historic celebration of its 10th Deepotsav, with a spectacular cultural procession showcasing the diverse folk traditions of India. Artists from 14 states, along with 11 teams from Uttar Pradesh, will participate in the celebrations, bringing the country’s rich cultural heritage to life through traditional dances, performances and colourful tableaux.
More than 650 artists are expected to take part in the procession, which will feature performances from different regions of the country. Haryana’s famous Phag, Kerala’s Kathakali, Rajasthan’s Jhoomar, Punjab’s Bhangra, Odisha’s Sambalpuri and Ghazipur’s Dibiya dance will be among the major attractions.
Traditional folk art performances from West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh will also be presented, offering visitors an opportunity to experience India’s cultural diversity at one place.
21 Teams to Present Grand Procession Based on Ramayana
On the day of Deepotsav, a grand procession featuring 21 teams will traditionally begin from Saket College in the morning. The tableaux will depict important episodes from all seven Kandas of the Ramayana:
- Bala Kanda: The childhood and early life of Lord Rama.
- Ayodhya Kanda: Events surrounding Rama’s exile from Ayodhya.
- Aranya Kanda: Rama’s journey through the forest.
- Kishkindha Kanda: The alliance between Rama and Sugriva.
- Sundara Kanda: Hanuman’s journey to Lanka.
- Lanka Kanda: The battle between Rama and Ravana.
- Uttara Kanda: Events from the concluding part of the Ramayana.
The religious tableaux will bring these significant episodes to life, while folk artists from different states will add colour and vibrancy to the procession along Ram Path.
The procession will also showcase the ancient tradition of the 16 adornments associated with Ramleela, adding another cultural dimension to the celebrations.
14 Information Department Tableaux to Highlight Government Schemes
Apart from the cultural procession, the Information Department will present 14 attractive tableaux showcasing development initiatives and achievements in Uttar Pradesh.
These tableaux will highlight work across key sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, tourism and cultural development.
According to Anurag Ranjan, District Information Officer, the presentations will feature major government initiatives such as:
- Jal Jeevan Mission
- One District One Product (ODOP)
- Ayushman Bharat Scheme
- Mission Shakti
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
The displays will also focus on improvements in roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare and education.
Modern Technology to Enhance the Grandeur of Deepotsav
The Information Department’s tableaux will focus particularly on improvements in basic infrastructure and public services, including roads, electricity, water supply, healthcare and education.
Modern technology is being used in the preparation of these tableaux to enhance their visual appeal. Special attention is being given to lighting so that their grandeur becomes even more prominent during the night amid the glow of the traditional earthen lamps.
Ayodhya Deepotsav to Showcase Culture and Development
Over the years, Ayodhya’s Deepotsav has evolved beyond a local religious celebration into a major platform for showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s cultural heritage and development initiatives.
The participation of artists from 14 states and 11 Uttar Pradesh teams, along with the Ramayana-themed tableaux and presentations on government schemes, will bring together India’s cultural traditions and the state’s development journey.With more than 650 artists participating in the grand procession, the 10th Deepotsav is set to offer visitors a memorable celebration of tradition, devotion and cultural diversity.
