More than 1.5 million decorative lamps in a northern Indian city illuminated the celebration of Diwali, or the festival of lights.

Diwali is a major Hindu festival in India, celebrated in October or November.

In the northern city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh state, volunteers used candles to light earthen lamps on Sunday evening for a state-organized event.

The festival's venue on both banks of a river was bathed in light, creating an air of fantasy.

People were seen quietly observing the lanterns or taking pictures with their friends and families.

Local student Rashi Singh said she was praying for the universe, for prosperity, health and wealth. She said she was feeling intoxicated and excited by it all.

The event's organizers said a record more than 1.5 million lamps were lit, and that they have asked the Guinness World Records to recognize the feat.