The Ayodhya Deepotsav this year turned out to be not just a grand spiritual celebration but also a major economic boost for the temple city. According to estimates cited by The Free Press Journal (FPJ), over ₹5 crore was infused into Ayodhya’s local economy during the five-day event, marking one of the strongest festive business periods in recent years.
Between October 16 and 22, Ayodhya saw a record footfall of over eight lakh pilgrims, including five lakh devotees at the Ram Lalla temple alone. Hotels, restaurants, and guesthouses reported around 90 per cent occupancy, while small traders and street vendors enjoyed brisk sales.
Faith Fuels Prosperity
Street hawkers, tea sellers, potters, and shopkeepers said their earnings during the festival matched or exceeded three months’ income. Economist Prof Vinod Srivastava, quoted by FPJ, said Deepotsav has evolved into a celebration of both faith and financial upliftment, creating a multiplier effect across sectors.
The festivities also drew international visitors from countries including the US, Australia, Spain, Canada, Fiji, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, who carried home Sarayu water and temple prasad as keepsakes.
As FPJ noted, the mix of devotion, grandeur, and economic activity has reaffirmed Ayodhya’s position as a spiritual and economic powerhouse, where cultural pride and local enterprise go hand in hand.
Local authorities said the Deepotsav’s economic impact will extend beyond the festival itself. Increased tourist inflow, improved infrastructure, and growing global visibility are expected to strengthen Ayodhya’s year-round economy, with more investments likely in hospitality, crafts, and transport services. As FPJ noted, Ayodhya’s Deepotsav now stands as a symbol of India’s cultural pride and grassroots economic revival.
