Preparations for Diwali among Indian community in Malaysia inspired him to visit Ram Nagari

“Ayodhya is extraordinary; I feel safe here and surrounded by positive energy,” he says

Shri Ram Temple and Deepotsav have given Ram Nagari global recognition, attracting tourists from across the world

Ayodhya, Nov 06 (HS): Witnessing Diwali preparations in Malaysia sparked a desire in Shane to visit Ayodhya. Having heard about grandeur of Deepotsav in Ram Nagari, he travelled all the way from Australia, across seven seas, to experience it firsthand. Now, as Shane sits at Ram Ki Paidi and admires preparations for Deepotsav, the sparkle in his eyes and the joy on his face are unmistakable. The illuminated streets, dazzling intersections, LED screens, decorative earthen lamps and religious and cultural performances make Ayodhya appear like an extraordinary world to him. In Shane’s words, his experience of Ayodhya is amazing and unbelievable.

Shane, a resident of Australia, is on a spiritual journey through India. Before arriving in India, he was in Malaysia, where witnessing Diwali preparations among the Indian community introduced him to the festival and Ayodhya’s Deepotsav. Shane said he first heard about Ayodhya in Malaysia. This sparked his desire to see how Diwali is celebrated in Ram Nagari. He said he was delighted to visit Ayodhya. The atmosphere here is filled with positive energy, and he is amazed by the preparations and illuminations for Deepotsav. For him, this is not merely a festival but an opportunity to experience India's spiritual traditions up close.

Illuminated streets of Ram Nagari and cultural performances at its intersections have also deeply impressed Shane. The grand decorations at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk, glimpses displayed on LED screens, and religious performances and folk dances organised at various locations bring alive Ayodhya’s cultural diversity.

Shane said preparations here are truly magnificent. He finds it wonderful to witness different cultures and traditions coming together. Way Deepotsav showcases Indian culture and spiritual heritage has been an immensely enriching experience for him. He also appreciated security arrangements in Ayodhya, saying that although he has travelled from Australia, he feels completely safe here. According to Shane, Ayodhya is a beautiful city, and its atmosphere brings peace and comfort to the mind.

Shane will remain in Ayodhya until Monday. After experiencing the grandeur of Deepotsav and Diwali, he will travel to Varanasi. For Shane, who is on a spiritual journey through India, his visit to Ram Nagari has become particularly special.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, pace of development in Ayodhya following construction of the Shri Ram Temple has expanded the city's identity at the global level. Grand temple, developing infrastructure, well-maintained roads, cultural events and worldwide recognition of Deepotsav are attracting international tourists as well. Shane, who travelled from Australia after hearing about Ayodhya in Malaysia, represents changing face of Ram Nagari. Fact that the celebrations of Deepotsav are now resonating across seven seas reflects how Ayodhya is emerging not only as a centre of faith but also as a major destination on the world spiritual tourism map.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi