Ayodhya: Large number of people from Ayodhya queued up along the Ram Path to witness the processions of tableaux that were taken through the city on Deepotsav.In the 10th edition of the festival, folk performances, musicians and artists with instruments over the ‘jhankis’ kept chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ as they went through the key arterial road of the temple town on Saturday.Drummers kept supporting the artists who were dancing to recreate the scenes from Treta Yug as the processions themed on Ramayana kept passing before the devotees.The procession showcased vivid depictions of key episodes from the Ramayana, including the divine forms of Lord Ram, Lakshman and Goddess Sita, as well as the brave acts of Hanuman.Live performances by artists brought the epic’s stories to life, captivating devotees lining the route. Women artists carrying drums on their shoulders and performers presenting folk dances from different states added to the festive spirit. The procession was flagged off from Saket Mahavidyalaya by Uttar Pradesh tourism minister Jaiveer Singh and culminated at Ram Katha Park after covering nearly 3km.A total of 21 tableaux were part of the procession, including 14 highlighting the achievements of the Uttar Pradesh govt and seven depicting the seven chapters of the Ramayana. The Ramayana-themed tableaux portrayed major events from Bal Kand to Uttar Kand, including the birth and childhood of Lord Ram, exile to the forest, encounters during exile, Lord Hanuman’s feats, the battle with Ravana and the concluding chapters of the epic.As the tableaux moved through the city, spectators witnessed a visual narration of the entire Ramayana.Several govt schemes and development initiatives also featured prominently in the procession.Tourism minister Jaiveer Singh said Deepotsav had evolved into a global festival. He described the event as divine, grand and unparalleled, expressing confidence that this year’s celebrations would set new records. He said the seven Ramayana-themed tableaux provided glimpses of Ayodhya’s spiritual heritage and cultural legacy.
