LUCKNOW: The much-anticipated "Deepotsav" in Ayodhya is coming up soon, and the Uttar Pradesh government will light 1.25 lakh cow-dung-made diyas at the event.

The government has also asked that every home light at least nine cow-dung-made diyas on Diwali.

Dharmpal Singh, who is in charge of caring for animals, said that the government will pray for the people's prosperity and health.

"The cow represents the spiritual power of the gods, and Hindus believe that cow dung is holy. This Diwali, the government of Yogi Adityanath will pray for the prosperity and health of all the people in the state by lighting diyas made from cow dung," he said.

Singh said it was good for the environment and would help protect native cattle species in the country. He also said that this step would encourage people to use products made from cow dung during the next festival.

During the Deepotsav celebrations, an official said that about 4.5 lakh lamps will be lit in 21 of Ayodhya's most important temples.

Also, about 51,000 diyas will be lit at the Ram Janmabhoomi, 21,000 at Hanuman Garhi, and many more in temples like Kanak Bhawan and Guptar Ghat. In addition to the diyas that will be lit on the Ghats of the Saryu River, these will also be lit.

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