This year’s Diwali in India carries an extraordinary significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that for the first time in over 500 years, Diwali will be celebrated with Lord Ram seated in the newly completed Ayodhya temple. In a video message, PM Modi extended warm Diwali greetings, calling this celebration a monumental event for India and a historical milestone for the Hindu community.
A Historic Moment for Hindus Around the World
PM Modi’s heartfelt message focused on the centuries-old cultural and spiritual anticipation surrounding the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. "After 500 years, Lord Ram is seated in his grand temple in Ayodhya," PM Modi stated. This year, Diwali marks not only a cultural tradition but also a new era of spiritual fulfillment for millions of devotees. Following the 2019 Supreme Court ruling that paved the way for temple construction, the Ayodhya Temple was inaugurated earlier this year in January.
The Prime Minister presided over the grand consecration ceremony, attended by thousands, including Bollywood celebrities, business figures, and sports personalities, creating a resounding symbol of unity and celebration. PM Modi emphasized how “fortunate” the nation is to witness this historic moment in the presence of Lord Ram.
Employment Initiatives Marking the Festival
On the auspicious day of Dhanteras, PM Modi highlighted the Rozgar Mela initiative, where 51,000 youth were granted appointment letters for government jobs. Modi emphasized that creating sustainable employment is a core priority for his administration, especially in festival seasons. “In this festive atmosphere… appointment letters are being given to 51,000 youth in the employment fair,” he noted, underlining the Government’s commitment to job creation across India.
Additionally, the Prime Minister commended the Haryana government’s success in providing job opportunities to nearly 26,000 young individuals, reflecting the robust employment strategy across BJP-ruled states. According to Modi, the employment fairs have collectively opened government positions for “lakhs of youth” since inception, marking an enduring commitment to youth empowerment.
The Cultural Significance of Diwali 2024
This Diwali is not only a festival of lights but also a powerful emblem of India’s spiritual and economic growth. The celebrations in Ayodhya, symbolized by the grandeur of the Ram Temple, bring a message of hope, unity, and progress for the nation. As the Ayodhya temple celebrates its first Diwali, this remarkable event will remain etched in the nation’s memory, symbolizing a union of faith, tradition, and modern prosperity.
Disclaimer: With inputs from ANI