Opinion | From Lamps To GDP: Diwali 2025 And The Light Of A New Economy
The epic return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile marked more than just the homecoming of a king; it signified the birth of a new era characterised by righteousness, leadership, prosperity, and justice.
On that no-moon night, Ayodhya was illuminated with countless lamps, symbolising the dispelling of darkness and the dawn of Ram Rajya, a society based on ethical governance and collective welfare.
As India celebrates Diwali on October 20, the festival holds deeper resonance than ever before. In a world troubled by geopolitical turmoil, shifting economic balances, and growing uncertainty, India stands at a critical juncture, much like Ayodhya on that historic night.
Diwali 2025 should not only be a festival of lights but also a new dawn for the Indian economy and its citizens, echoing the ideals of Lord Ram’s return: moral order, collective strength, and renewed prosperity.
The story of Lord Ram’s return, known as ‘Vijayotsava’, has transcended mythology to become a cultural metaphor for leadership and renewal. The triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (arrogance) resonates strongly with modern India’s journey on the global stage.
Ravana’s defeat, symbolising the end of arrogance and disorder, parallels India’s assertive stance in defending its sovereignty and addressing security challenges. From cross-border counterterrorism operations to strengthened border management, these actions reflect the same spirit of determination that defined Ram’s march to victory.
Diplomatically, the alliances forged by Lord Ram, notably with the Vanar Sena and through the bridge-building (setu) to Lanka, find their echo in India’s contemporary policy of multi-alignment. By........





















Toi Staff
Gideon Levy
Tarik Cyril Amar
Mort Laitner
Stefano Lusa
Mark Travers Ph.d
Andrew Silow-Carroll
Ellen Ginsberg Simon