Ayodhya is bustling with Diwali preparations, aiming to set a world record by simultaneously lighting 24 lakh lamps across 51 ghats.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh on Saturday (11 November) morning flagged a tableau procession from Saket Degree College depicting the craftsmanship of artisans throughout the state. The tableaus reached Ram Katha Park at 2.30 pm.

The procession featured seven tableaus from the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, a Ram Rath, and 11 tableaus from the Information Department, each illustrating different tales from the Ramayana.

Additionally, it showcased a variety of dance forms, including Dhobiya from Azamgarh, Kullu Nati from Himachal Pradesh, Gatka and Bhangra from Punjab, Garba from Gujarat, Dhol Tasha from Nagpur, and other dances from across India.

Around 25,000 volunteers from Avadh University and the Ayodhya district administration are enlisted to simultaneously light the diyas.

The Guinness World Records team will use a drone camera to count the lamps.

The grand Deepotsav programme in Ayodhya commenced at 3 pm.

The Deepotsav was inaugurated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Almost all ministers of the Uttar Pradesh government will be present in Ayodhya. After the Deepotsav, a laser show will be organised in the city.

Further, the High Commissioners and Ambassadors of more than 50 countries are expected to participate in the grand event.

At 6.30 pm, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will perform the Saryu Aarti, followed by the inauguration of the festival of lights at Ram Ki Paidi, the series of ghats on the Saryu river bank, at 7.30 pm.

The Chief Minister, along with the guests, will witness Ramlila from four countries.