Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Avadhesh Prasad on Sunday expressed disappointment over not being invited by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to the Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya, saying the SP does not oppose the festival, but the mentality and ideology of the ruling party were the reasons behind the boycott.
Speaking to ANI, the Samajwadi Party leader alleged that although the festival was being funded by the government, he was not given an invitation. He said, “BJP had organized Deepotsav in Ayodhya… It happened last year too. Many people asked whether I was going there or not. I told them that I had not received an invitation even though it was organized with government money. Because of their mentality and ideology they did not invite me. Did.”
Prasad further said, “Half of the oil will be used in lamps and half will be sold. We do not oppose the festival of lights, but welcome it. But today there is a need for a system that will bring awareness and light to people’s homes and remove darkness.”
Commenting on SP chief Akhilesh Yadav’s recent statement regarding the festival, Prasad said, “His statement is correct. You should go to Ayodhya and see how money is being wasted and what a miserable condition everyone is going through. There should be a system that creates happiness in the hearts of people, increases their income, removes unemployment and promotes development that benefits all.”
Meanwhile, preparations for Deepotsav 2025 are in full swing at Ram Ki Paidi located on the banks of river Saryu in Ayodhya. The state administration is aiming to create a record by lighting more than 26 lakh earthen lamps at the ghats as part of the grand Diwali celebrations. Devotees and tourists have started arriving in the holy city to witness this vibrant scene. Another tourist from Patna praised the arrangements made by the government and said, “All proper arrangements are there for the devotees coming here…”
Deepotsav marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. As per tradition, the people of Ayodhya welcomed Lord Ram, Mother Sita and Lakshmana by lighting earthen lamps and celebrated the victory of good over evil. The festival of Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil. People prepare for it by purifying their homes and minds. Ritual bathing and lighting arrangements are made.
