Diwali 2025: The much awaited festival of lights is just a few days away and the enthusiasm of the devotees for the Deepotsav celebrations, especially in Ayodhya, has reached its peak. From the inauguration of the world’s first Ramayana wax museum to massive ‘darshan’ bookings at the Ram temple, Ayodhya is gearing up to celebrate the return of Lord Ram after his 14-year exile.
The Ram Mandir Trust said record online bookings were made this year, with people securing thousands of tickets just hours after opening, news website PTI reported.
Diwali has a special significance for Ayodhya because, according to the Ramayana, it marks the return of Rama, Sita and Lakshman to the city after 14 years of exile and the victory of good over evil.
The world’s first Ramayana wax museum
Apart from the ninth Deepotsav celebrations, Ayodhya will also witness the world’s first Ramayana-themed wax museum. According to news agency reports, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath will inaugurate the museum.
Located on Chaudah Kosi Parikrama route, opposite Kashiram Colony, the museum brings alive the divine atmosphere of Treta Yuga. It aims to serve as a center of faith as well as a global tourist attraction.
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It is spread over 9,850 square feet and is built to cost ₹6 crore, the fully air-conditioned museum houses 50 living wax sculptures of characters from the Ramayana, including Lord Ram, depicting key episodes from the epic.
Inside the Ramayana Wax Museum
After the inauguration, entry to the Ramayana wax museum will be limited to 100 visitors at a time, PTI reported.
A magnificent idol of Lord Ganesha welcomes visitors at the entrance, symbolizing the auspicious beginning of the journey.
Inside, visitors will be greeted by the fragrance of Treta Yuga accompanied by the chanting of ‘Ram Tarak Mantra’ and Ram Bhajans. A special selfie point has also been created next to the wax statue of baby Ram where children and elders alike can take memorable photos with the deity.
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Over the past eight years, Deepotsav in Ayodhya has evolved into a globally recognized spectacle that has set world records for lighting lakhs of diyas along the banks of the Saryu River and in prominent temples across the holy city.
When is Deepotsav in Ayodhya?
Deepotsav will be celebrated on Sunday, October 19. This year is the second Deepotsav for the Ram Temple which was inaugurated in January 2024.
According to the Ram Mandir Trust, this year separate online bookings for ‘Ram Darbar’ darshan are sold out till November 29 and the online submission facility will reopen at midnight on October 29.
Ayodhya, Oct 8 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath offers prayers at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Wednesday. (@CMOfficeUP/ANI Photo)
The city’s hospitality sector is also experiencing similar excitement. Hotels in Ayodhya are reporting full occupancy for the festival week, with bookings for October 18 and 19 completely sold out, PTI reported.
Diwali in Ayodhya
Every year, Ayodhya celebrates Diwali by lighting up the city with countless clay lamps, recreating the divine welcome that, according to legend, greeted Rama on his return home.
During Deepotsav 2025, the main event will be held at the majestic Ram Ki Paidi in Ayodhya. (Photo File)
The holiday symbolizes light triumphing over darkness and justice triumphing over injustice.
This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 20 and preparations for the grand Deepotsav are already in full swing.
