Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a beloved five-day festival in India that begins with Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi) and ends with Bhai Dooj. One special day within this celebration is Narak Chaturdashi, also called Choti Diwali, which commemorates Lord Krishna's triumph over the demon Narakasura. Let's explore the significance of Narak Chaturdashi and its rituals.
When is Narak Chaturdashi Observed?
Narak Chaturdashi falls on the 14th day (Chaturdashi) of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu Karthik month, aligning with October 30, 2024, this year. This festival celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Narak Chaturdashi Puja & Abhyanga Snan Muhurat
Abhyanga Snan Muhurat: 5:30 AM to 6:38 AM on October 31
Duration: 1 hour 9 minutes
Moonrise Time: 5:30 AM during Chaturdashi
Chaturdashi Tithi: Starts at 1:15 PM on October 30 and ends at 3:52 PM on October 31.
Since the Abhyanga Snan timing varies by location, it's best to consult your local Panchang for accurate timings.
Defeat of Narakasura: According to legend, Narakasura, a powerful demon, tormented saints and abducted divine maidens, causing widespread distress. Due to a curse, Narakasura could only be killed by a woman. With the help of his wife, Satyabhama, Lord Krishna defeated Narakasura on this day. In celebration, people light diyas to mark the victory of good over evil.
Mahabali and Vamana Avatar: Another tale tells of Lord Vishnu taking on the Vamana avatar to reclaim lands conquered by the demon king Mahabali. Impressed by Mahabali’s humility, Vishnu granted him a boon that anyone lighting diyas on Karthik Krishna Chaturdashi would be blessed with wealth and shielded from a journey to Yamalok (Hell).
Thus, lighting diyas and performing Deep Daan became key rituals on Narak Chaturdashi.
Celebrations Across India
Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, is celebrated with enthusiasm across the country. Some regional celebrations include:
Goa: Giant effigies of Narakasura are paraded and then burned.
West Bengal: The day coincides with Kali Puja, where grand pandals of Goddess Kali are set up and special rituals are conducted.
Significant Rituals on Narak Chaturdashi
Abhyanga Snan:
On Narak Chaturdashi, people perform the Abhyanga Snan, a ritual bath using a herbal paste of flowers, oils, and beautifying ingredients, believed to cleanse the soul and protect against misfortune. This ritual is often followed by wearing new clothes.
Fasting and Worship:
Devotees may fast on this day, worship Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi, and break their fast only after performing puja. People also honor Hanuman by offering flowers, sandalwood, and oil.
Culinary Delights:
In Western India, families prepare sweets from fresh harvests, such as rice flakes, jaggery, and sesame seeds.
Kul Devi/Devta Worship:
Many also worship their Kul Devi or Devta, offering food to their ancestors as a gesture of respect and gratitude.
Narak Chaturdashi Fun Facts
The Abhyanga Snan ritual on Narak Chaturdashi is considered mandatory in many families.
Many people keep Ganga Jal (holy water from the Ganges) and mix it with their bath water on this day.
Lighting a diya outside the main entrance is believed to absolve past sins and invite prosperity.
Nisheeth Kaal is a time when people remove clutter from their homes, symbolizing the removal of negativity as they welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, during Diwali.
Conclusion
Narak Chaturdashi, a key festival within Diwali, highlights India’s cultural diversity and unity. The festive season, which starts with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj, brings people together, connecting them to their heritage.
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