Deepotsav 2025 Special

Successful Mock Drill Lights Up Ayodhya Ahead of Deepotsav 2025

Spectacular 1100-drone formations captivate visitors; 2,100 Vedic scholars conduct Maha Aarti rehearsal

Ayodhya witnesses a mesmerizing preview of light, devotion, and technology ahead of the grand celebration

Ayodhya/Lucknow, October 18, 2025

The sacred city of Ayodhya came alive with divine splendour and anticipation on Saturday evening as the Tourism Department successfully conducted a full-scale mock drill of Deepotsav 2025. From the grand Maha Aarti rehearsal by 2,100 Vedic scholars to the spectacular 1100-drone and 3D holographic laser mapping show, every element unfolded with precision, offering a captivating glimpse of what awaits on the main celebration day.

A Grand Rehearsal of Faith and Precision

The evening began with the rhythmic chants of the Vedic scholars performing the Maha Aarti on the ghats of Saryu, their synchronized movements turning the riverfront into a living tableau of devotion. The glowing diyas, the disciplined coordination, and the reverberating hymns recreated an atmosphere reminiscent of Treta Yug, earning heartfelt applause from spectators who gathered in large numbers.

The highlight of the evening, however, was the drone show which turned Ayodhya’s night sky into a moving canvas of devotion and art. The 1,100 ‘Make in India’ drones took flight, forming breathtaking images of Lord Ram with his bow aiming at Ravana, the Ram Mandir, Ram Lala, and Lord Hanuman. Each formation was met with loud cheers and chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ as visitors stood in awe, capturing the moment on their phones.

Drone Show Steals the Spotlight

Children were seen jumping with excitement while families and devotees watched in wonder as the formations unfolded one after another in perfect synchronization. The spectacle drew overwhelming public appreciation, with many describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Aditya Sethi, a visitor from Mumbai who travelled especially for Deepotsav, said, “The drone show was historic. Watching Lord Ram’s image appear in the sky gave me goosebumps. It felt as if the entire Ramayana was being told through the stars.”

Devotion Meets Discipline

Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “The mock drill was conducted as if it were the final day. The Tourism Department is making foolproof arrangements to give visitors and spectators an enthralling divine experience. The devotees’ happiness is our priority, and every rehearsal helps us ensure that each moment of Deepotsav 2025 runs flawlessly.”

He added that the Deepotsav is not just a festival but an emotion that connects every devotee to the timeless legacy of Lord Ram. The successful trial run, he said, demonstrates the team’s commitment to ensuring safety, synchronization, and spiritual experience at an unprecedented scale.

Curtain-Raiser to a Grand Celebration

The mock drill also included trials of the 3D holographic laser show, which drew loud applause for its seamless blend of light and storytelling. Together with the drone formations and Aarti rehearsal, the evening offered a complete preview of the grandeur and devotion that will illuminate Ayodhya on October 19, when more than 26 lakh diyas will light up 56 ghats in a Guinness World Record-setting display. The main day will also showcase display of green fireworks.