• 30 Oct 2024

Ayodhya Deepotsav 2024

Why in News?

Recently, preparations for the 8^th Deepotsav in Ayodhya have intensified under Chief Minister’s guidance to make this year's event the grandest one.

Key Points

• A total of 18 tableaux depicting pivotal moments in Lord Ram’s life will be displayed, symbolizing Ayodhya's deep cultural heritage.
  • Key events such as his marriage, exile, and victory over Ravana will be represented.
• The Information Department is creating 11 tableaux, while the Tourism Department is crafting seven, focusing on the seven chapters of the Ram Charit Manas, such as Bal Kand and Lanka Kand.
• Ayodhya will be illuminated extensively, with diverse lighting enhancing the city’s festive spirit.

Ramlila (North India)

• Ramlila, literally “Rama‟s play” is a performance of Ramayana epic in a series of scenes that include song, narration, recital and dialogue.
• It recalls the battle between Rama and Ravana and consists of a series of dialogues between gods, sages and the faithful.
• It is performed across northern India during the festival of Dussehra.
• The most representative Ramlilas are those of Ayodhya, Ramnagar and Benares, Vrindavan, Almora, Sattna and Madhubani.
• This staging of the Ramayana is based on the Ramcharitmanas which was composed by Tulsidas in the 16^th century AD.

Green Ayodhya Fund Initiative

Why in News?

Recently, Ayodhya introduced the Green Ayodhya Fund to drive sustainable urban development and environmental conservation.

Key Points

• Objective:
  • The fund aims to promote eco-friendly initiatives, sustainable urban planning, and conservation efforts to create a greener Ayodhya.
    • It supports projects on waste management, renewable energy, urban greenery, and pollution reduction, aligning with environmental goals for sustainable urban landscapes.
• Public Involvement:
  • The fund encourages community participation and donations to support initiatives, fostering a sense of shared responsibility in environmental conservation.

Ram Temple

• Traditional Architecture and Construction:
  • This is a 3-storey temple, built in the traditional Nagara style, standing tall with pink sandstone from Mirzapur and the hills of Bansi-Paharpur (Rajasthan).
  • Temple covers an expansive 71 acres, showcasing the architectural marvel.
• Temple Dimensions:
  • Spanning 250 feet in width and 161 feet in height, the main temple area covers 2.67 acres, boasting 390 pillars, 46 doorways, and 5 mandaps.
• Unique Features Inside:
  • The main Garbh Griha holds the idols of Ram Lalla, accompanied by multiple mandaps, including Rang Mandap & Nritya Mandap.
• Innovative Anointment Tradition:
  • On every Ram Navami at noon, a system of mirrors and lenses will focus the sun's rays on Ram Lalla’s idol. This unique anointment requires no electricity, utilizing brass instead of iron or steel.
• Sculptor's Contribution:
  • The idol of five-year-old Ram Lalla, crafted by Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, stands at 51 inches and was consecrated in a special ceremony.
• Durability and Symbolism:
  • No iron has been used in the temple's construction, designed to endure for at least a millennium.

J&K Integrity Pledge

Why in News?

Recently, J&K Chief Minister led an integrity pledge as part of Vigilance Awareness Week to reinforce anti-corruption efforts.

Key Points

• Commitment to Transparency:
  • Chief Minister emphasized a corruption-free Jammu & Kashmir through reforms, strict oversight, and citizen empowerment, aligning with the Vigilance Week theme of "Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity."
• Widespread Participation:
  • The pledge involved ministers, secretariat officials, and district-level leaders, with additional ceremonies held across departments to ensure full administrative support for integrity in governance.
• Mission for Ethical Governance:
  • CM reinforced his government's goal to prioritize public welfare, stressing a governance model that focuses on transparency, efficient resource use, and integrity-driven decision-making.

Vigilance Awareness Week

• The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) observes the Week every year during the week in which the birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31^st October) falls.
• Objective: It affirms India’s commitment to the promotion of integrity and probity in public life through citizen participation and reiterates Government’s resolve to continue the crusade against corruption.

Nakshatra Sabha: Astro-Tourism in Uttarakhand

Why in News?

Recently, Nakshatra Sabha was launched to promote astro-tourism and local heritage across Uttarakhand.

Key Points

• Event Overview:
  • Organized by Starscapes in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, Nakshatra Sabha is a year-long series of immersive astro-tourism events.
  • The initiative includes celestial observations, astrophotography sessions, and cultural immersion at various dark-sky locations.
• Cultural Integration:
  • Each edition highlights the region’s natural beauty, cultural significance, and the interplay between astronomy and local heritage.
  • Events aim to make astronomy accessible and engaging, fostering interest among participants of all ages.
  • The program promotes awareness of Uttarakhand’s rich traditions and its historical connections to astronomy.
• Community Involvement:
  • Local communities are encouraged to participate, enhancing tourism and supporting local economies.
  • Participants can engage in guided stargazing sessions, workshops, and discussions led by experts in astronomy and culture.

Uttarakhand Tourism Policy

• Investment Promotion:
  • The new tourism policy aims to attract investments by setting a minimum project cost of Rs. 5 crore, providing up to 50% subsidies in unexplored areas, and 100% subsidies for initiatives like heli tourism and adventure activities.
• Categorization of Cities:
  • Cities are divided into three categories (A, B, and C) with varying subsidy rates: 25% in Category A, 35% in Category B, and up to 50% in Category C, along with exemptions from stamp duty.
• Diverse Incentives:
  • Financial incentives are offered for various tourism ventures, including hotels, adventure sports, and eco-friendly transport options, aimed at creating new employment opportunities and promoting sustainable tourism.