Ayodhya's 10th Deepotsav runs from 5 to 7 November

Ayodhya is preparing for Deepotsav from 5 to 7 November, according to UNI's report on 23 October. The agency reported a target of over three million lamps, with over 35,000 volunteers from Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University taking part in the festival.

Organiser reported on 10 October that this is the 10th Deepotsav, with 33 lakh earthen lamps planned at Ram Ki Paidi and the Saryu riverfront, supported by 34,000 volunteers.

Business Today reported on 28 October a plan for 30 lakh diyas. It said local potter families reported large orders, with electric wheels helping them meet demand. The reports differ on the planned numbers. The final lamp count is not yet known.

Each household prepares its own door

In the Ramcharitmanas, Goswami Tulsidas describes Ayodhya preparing for Shri Ram's return:

अवधपुरी प्रभु आवत जानी। भई सकल सोभा कै खानी॥ बहइ सुहावन त्रिबिध समीरा। भइ सरजू अति निर्मल नीरा॥

Uttar Kand, Chaupai 7.3.5

Knowing the Lord is coming, Avadhpuri fills with beauty. A pleasant breeze blows, and the Saryu's water becomes very clear.

कंचन कलस बिचित्र सँवारे। सबहिं धरे सजि निज निज द्वारे॥ बंदनवार पताका केतू। सबन्हि बनाए मंगल हेतू॥

Uttar Kand, Chaupai 7.9.1

Everyone adorns golden pots at their own doors and prepares garlands, flags and banners for auspiciousness. The words निज निज द्वारे place the preparation at each household's own door. Devotion gives each of us something to do.

Prepare your own door with care, then read this passage in Uttar Kand.