The Ayodhya open-air theatre at Ram Ki Paidi will provide a permanent venue for cultural performances beside the Saryu. The Uttar Pradesh government plans events beyond the Deepotsav festival. Follow Uttar Pradesh current affairs for more state exam updates.
Quick answer: The Ayodhya open-air theatre is a completed cultural venue at Ram Ki Paidi on the Saryu river. The project began in May 2025 and was sanctioned at ₹23.68 crore. The Uttar Pradesh government plans year-round programmes, including performances around Ram Navami and the local Parikramas.
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ram Ki Paidi, Ayodhya, on the Saryu |
| Project phase | Second phase of tourism development at Ram Ki Paidi |
| Sanctioned amount | ₹23.68 crore |
| Released and spent | ₹20.37 crore, according to the project status report |
| Executing agency | Uttar Pradesh Projects Corporation |
| Project start | May 2025 |
Why is the Ayodhya open-air theatre in news?
The completed theatre is intended to host cultural events throughout the year. It forms part of the second phase of tourism development at Ram Ki Paidi. The government wants to attract visitors beyond Deepotsav, which was held on 7 November.
The project was sanctioned under the Shri Ayodhya Ji Tirth Vikas Parishad. It began in May 2025, and the Uttar Pradesh Projects Corporation executed it. The project status report puts the amount released and spent at ₹20.37 crore.
What facilities does the theatre have?
The venue has a permanent stage and audience gallery, along with a visitor gallery. Therefore, programmes can use these facilities without the temporary infrastructure needed for Deepotsav. The project also includes an ornamental entrance, a selfie point, a mural wall, lighting and landscaped areas.
Six stone chhatris and six stone jyoti deep structures have been built. In addition, the site has stone pillars, planters, latticework, directional signs and inscription panels.
Which cultural programmes are planned?
The proposed programme includes Ramlila, Ram Katha, devotional music and Awadhi folk performances. Local Ramlila troupes, bhajan groups, students and cultural institutions are expected to participate. During Ram Navami, events could focus on the birth and life of Lord Ram.
Presentations during the 14 Kosi and Panchkosi Parikramas could introduce pilgrims to the journeys. Officials are also considering curated access for digital creators to record local traditions. However, the cultural calendar and rules for scheduling and recordings are still under consideration.
- Ayodhya is a city in the Ayodhya district of Uttar Pradesh.
- Ayodhya is associated with the Ramayana and the life of Lord Ram.
- The Saryu flows past Ayodhya.
Source: The Indian Express, 12 November 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Ayodhya open-air theatre located?
It is at Ram Ki Paidi in Ayodhya, beside the Saryu river. It is part of the area’s second phase of tourism development.
What was the sanctioned cost of the theatre project?
The sanctioned amount was ₹23.68 crore. The project status report records ₹20.37 crore as released and spent.
What events could be held at the theatre?
Possible events include Ramlila, Ram Katha, devotional music and Awadhi folk performances. Programmes are also planned around Ram Navami and the local Parikramas.
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