The festival of lights, Deepavali, begins with Dhanteras and continues for five days. Following Dhanteras is Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, celebrated the day before Diwali. On Narak Chaturdashi, lighting a lamp for Yama is considered auspicious. By lighting this lamp, people wish to protect their families from untimely death. This lamp is lit in the southern direction of the house through the eldest member of the family. Let’s learn about the other names and significance of this day.
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Different Names of Narak Chaturdashi
Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated just one day before Diwali and is commonly referred to as Chhoti Diwali. It is also known by several other names, including Roop Chaudas, Roop Chaturdashi, Bhoot Chaturdashi, and Narak Nivaran Chaturdashi. On this day, people light lamps in honor of Yama, the god of death, and worship him along with other deities for salvation. The worship of Goddess Kali is also significant on this day, and it is essential to follow specific rituals and traditions.
When and Why is Narak Chaturdashi Celebrated?
Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated on the Chaturdashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of the Kartik month, just one day before Diwali. According to Hindu tradition, people bathe before sunrise, perform Tarpan for Yama, and conduct a Diya Daan (lamp donation) in the evening. This festival is considered one of the most important celebrations in Hinduism.
The Slaying of Narakasura by Lord Krishna
According to mythology, there was a demon named Narakasura who captured 16,100 princesses using his powers, tormenting the gods and sages. Distressed by his tyranny, the gods and saints approached Lord Krishna for help. Narakasura had a curse that he would die at the hands of a woman, so Lord Krishna, with the assistance of his wife Satyabhama, killed Narakasura on the Chaturdashi of the Krishna Paksha in Kartik month and freed the 16,100 girls. The deities and the people of the Earth rejoiced upon Narakasura’s defeat, lighting lamps in celebration. It is believed that the tradition of celebrating this day began from that moment.
What to Do on Narak Chaturdashi 2024
- Wake Up Early: Rise before sunrise, take a bath, and apply a tilak (mark) on your forehead.
- Light a Lamp for Yama: On Narak Chaturdashi, light a lamp in the name of Yama, as it is believed that worshiping Yama dispels the fear of untimely death.
- Worship Lord Krishna: It is considered highly auspicious to worship Lord Krishna on this day.
- Place 14 Lamps: Light 14 lamps and place them in different parts of the house.
By observing these rituals, you can celebrate Narak Chaturdashi in a meaningful way.