Ayodhya (UP), Nov 7 (PTI) As Shane sits at Ram Ki Paidi and admires preparations for Deepotsav, the excitement is evident on his face.
Having witnessed Diwali preparations in Malaysia, Shane developed a desire to visit Ayodhya after hearing about the grandeur of Deepotsav in the city. He travelled all the way from Australia to experience the celebrations firsthand.
The illuminated streets, decorated intersections, LED screens, earthen lamps and religious and cultural performances have left him amazed, the Uttar Pradesh government said in a statement.
Shane, an Australian national, is on a spiritual journey through India. Before arriving in the country, he was in Malaysia, where witnessing Diwali preparations among the Indian community introduced him to the festival and Ayodhya’s Deepotsav.
He said he first heard about Ayodhya in Malaysia, which sparked his desire to see how Diwali is celebrated in the city of Lord Ram.
Shane said he was delighted to visit Ayodhya, describing its atmosphere as full of positive energy. He said the preparations and illuminations for Deepotsav had left him amazed, adding that the festival was an opportunity to experience India’s spiritual traditions up close.
The illuminated streets and cultural performances at various intersections have also impressed him.
The decorations at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk, displays on LED screens, religious performances and folk dances organised at different locations offer a glimpse of Ayodhya’s cultural diversity, he said.
Shane described the preparations as magnificent and said witnessing different cultures and traditions coming together had been a wonderful experience. The way Deepotsav showcases India’s culture and spiritual heritage had been immensely enriching for him, he added.
He also appreciated the security arrangements in Ayodhya, saying he felt completely safe despite having travelled from Australia. Describing Ayodhya as a beautiful city, he said its atmosphere brought peace and comfort to the mind.
Shane will remain in Ayodhya until Monday. After experiencing Deepotsav and Diwali celebrations, he will travel to Varanasi.
The construction of the Ram Temple and subsequent development initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have expanded Ayodhya’s identity on the global stage, the statement said.
The grand temple, developing infrastructure, improved roads, cultural events and international recognition of Deepotsav are attracting foreign tourists as well, it added.
Shane’s journey from Australia to Ayodhya after hearing about the festival in Malaysia reflects the growing international appeal of the celebrations, the statement said, adding that Ayodhya was emerging as a destination for spiritual tourism.
