Dazzling Diwali record: Ayodhya’s 2.22 million lamps, festivities, and environmental concerns. Historic celebrations amidst pollution awareness.
Diwali’s Dazzling Record-Breaking Display
Millions of Indians celebrated Diwali with fervor, culminating in a mesmerizing display of over 2.22 million earthen oil lamps along the Saryu River in Ayodhya. This spectacular event, held at the birthplace of the revered deity Ram, set a new Guinness World Record. The lamps illuminated the riverbanks, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, a central theme of the annual Hindu festival.
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Record-Breaking Festivities at Saryu River
Devotees gathered along the banks of the Saryu River, lighting 2.22 million lamps that glowed for 45 minutes, accompanied by the resonant chants of Hindu religious hymns. This awe-inspiring feat surpassed the previous year’s record of 1.5 million lamps. Guinness World Records representatives officially recognized the achievement, presenting a certificate to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath.
Volunteer Efforts and Preparations
The monumental event involved the collaborative efforts of over 24,000 volunteers, primarily college students, who worked diligently to prepare for the record-breaking endeavor. Pratibha Goyal, the vice-chancellor of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University in Ayodhya, highlighted the significant role played by volunteers in achieving this milestone.
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Diwali Celebrations Across India
Diwali, a national holiday in India, is celebrated with social gatherings, gift exchanges, and the illumination of homes with earthen lamps or candles. The festival also includes fireworks displays and a special prayer dedicated to the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing luck and prosperity. The entire nation comes alive with vibrant lights and joyous festivities during this auspicious occasion.
Concerns Amidst Celebration
Despite the joyous celebrations, concerns about air quality loomed over Diwali. India has faced severe air pollution, recording hazardous levels on the air quality index in the weeks leading up to the festival. Unexpected rain and strong winds temporarily improved air quality, but authorities anticipate a surge in pollution after the fireworks-laden celebrations conclude.
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Precautions and Environmental Initiatives
To address pollution concerns, some Indian states have imposed restrictions, including bans on certain fireworks and promotion of “green crackers” with fewer pollutants. However, the effectiveness of such measures remains a challenge, as past bans have often been overlooked. Authorities in New Delhi took additional steps, such as shutting down schools and limiting polluting activities, to mitigate the impact of seasonal haze and smog.
Diwali Amidst Historical Significance
This year’s Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya hold particular significance as authorities prepare to inaugurate a long-awaited temple dedicated to the Hindu god Ram at the site of the demolished Babri mosque. The destruction of the mosque in 1992 triggered significant communal tensions, and the construction of the temple marks a historic moment in Ayodhya’s history.
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In summary, Diwali 2023 not only witnessed a breathtaking display of lights but also showcased the spirit of unity and volunteerism, all while addressing pressing environmental concerns and contributing to the historical tapestry of Ayodhya.