Scores of Hindu devotees recently gathered on a river bank in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, to light over one lakh earthen oil lamps and prayed for world peace and prosperity of citizens.
The lighting of earthen lamps was done just a day after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Devotees congregated at the Surajkund temple in Gorakhpur and prayed for brotherhood among people.
According to mythology, Lord Rama was believed to have rested at this temple site with his consort Sita on their way back from Lanka after defeating Ravana.
A devotee, Niru, said she performs this ceremony with her family every year.
"Every household gets five earthen oil lamps, make wishes and pray for world peace and brotherhood across India," said Niru.
The temple was illuminated with lights as earthen lamps were placed on the steps.
It is a century old custom, organised with the aim to purify the atmosphere and keep the surroundings clean.