As Ayodhya prepares to light a record 26 lakh diyas for Diwali Celebration this year, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has ignited a fresh political controversy. During a public address, Yadav questioned the government’s expenditure on large-scale Diwali celebrations and suggested that India should “learn” from how other countries celebrate Christmas.
“Across the world, cities stay illuminated for months during Christmas. We should learn from them. Why spend so much money on lamps and candles?”
Akhilesh Yadav
The SP leader further criticized the ruling government, saying it should be “removed” and replaced by one that creates “more beautiful lights” across cities.
Ayodhya Diwali Celebration Table of Contents
Ayodhya’s Record-Breaking Diwali Diwali Celebration
The Uttar Pradesh government is aiming to set a world record by lighting 26,11,101 diyas at Ram Ki Paidi and 56 ghats along the Saryu River. Officials say the arrangement highlights Ayodhya’s spiritual and cultural legacy, symbolizing the return of Lord Ram.
The diyas are being counted based on the specific pattern in which they are placed — a detail meant to ensure accurate record validation.
BJP Responds: “Akhilesh Has a Problem When Ayodhya Shines”
Reacting sharply, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused Akhilesh Yadav of being uncomfortable with the growing prominence of Ayodhya and its cultural revival.
“Ayodhya was kept in darkness during the Samajwadi Party’s rule. The same party that once opened fire on Ram devotees now has a problem when Ayodhya shines. They could organize song-and-dance festivals in Saifai, but they object to Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya.”
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said:
VHP Calls Akhilesh ‘Anti-Sanatani’
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) also joined the debate, accusing Akhilesh Yadav of glorifying Western festivals over Indian culture.
“This former Chief Minister praises Christmas on the occasion of Diwali. The sight of rows of diyas seems to burn his heart. Instead of celebrating Diwali, he’s telling Hindus to learn from Christmas. His anti-Sanatani mindset and jealousy over Ayodhya’s joy are evident.”
VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal said:
Bansal further pointed out that Diwali predates Christianity and has been celebrated for centuries, symbolizing victory of light over darkness.
The Larger Debate: Culture or Politics?
While Akhilesh Yadav’s remarks were likely aimed at questioning the government’s expenditure, they have once again exposed deep political and cultural fault lines in Uttar Pradesh.
For many, Ayodhya’s grand celebrations represent a new era of cultural pride and tourism. For others, it raises questions about priorities, governance, and symbolism.
One thing is certain — this Diwali, the lamps in Ayodhya are lighting more than just ghats; they’re igniting a nationwide debate on faith, politics, and cultural identity.
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