Lord Krishna and Satyabhama’s divine triumph over Narakasura
Naraka Chaturdashi: The Spiritual Victory Before Diwali
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Author: Manjusha Sinha
The festival of Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali or Kali Chaudas, holds a sacred place in the five-day Diwali celebration. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and purity over sin.
1. The Story of Naraka Chaturdashi: Victory of Lord Krishna
According to scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, Narakasura, the demon king of Pragjyotishpur, was defeated by Lord Krishna and Satyabhama. His death marked the beginning of this joyful festival.
2. Spiritual Significance
This day represents the destruction of inner darkness — ego, anger, greed, and ignorance. Rituals help devotees cleanse their bodies and minds before Diwali.
3. Why It’s Called Chhoti Diwali
As a precursor to Diwali, Naraka Chaturdashi is a day of preparation — cleaning homes, lighting lamps, and invoking divine blessings.
4. Rituals of Naraka Chaturdashi
- Abhyang Snan: Sacred oil bath before sunrise using ubtan.
- Lighting Diyas: Symbolic of Krishna’s divine energy and protection from Yama.
- Prayers to Krishna: Offerings and verses from sacred texts.
- Naivedya: Sweets like poha, ladoos, and rice flakes.
- Yama Deepam: Evening diya facing south for longevity and peace.
5. Regional Celebrations
North India: Known as Chhoti Diwali, celebrated with rangoli and firecrackers.
South India: Enthusiastic rituals and prayers in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Maharashtra & Gujarat: Known as Kali Chaudas, with pujas to Kali Maa and Hanuman.
6. Symbolism of Krishna’s Victory
- Narakasura = arrogance and ignorance
- Satyabhama = divine wisdom
- Krishna = soul’s divine consciousness
7. Fasting and Food Traditions
Devotees enjoy sattvic meals post-puja. Popular dishes include puran poli, karanji, and shankarpali.
8. Connection to Diwali
Naraka Chaturdashi purifies the soul, preparing homes and hearts for Lakshmi Puja on Diwali.
9. Astrological Insights
Sun-Moon alignment enhances spiritual energy. Lighting diyas during Pradosh Kaal boosts Venus and Jupiter’s blessings.
10. Modern Relevance
In today’s world, this festival reminds us to cleanse our inner selves and renew hope and positivity.
Conclusion
Let Naraka Chaturdashi inspire us to conquer inner negativity and welcome Diwali’s divine light with purity and joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the date of Naraka Chaturdashi in 2025?
Naraka Chaturdashi in 2025 will be observed on 20 October 2025 (Monday). Since it’s the Amavasya night, the evening of 20th October would be celebrated as Badi Diwali.
2. Why is it called Choti Diwali?
It is called Choti Diwali because it falls a day before the main Diwali celebrations and shares the same theme of light defeating darkness.
3. What is the importance of the early morning oil bath?
The Abhyang Snan purifies the body and removes negative karma, symbolizing cleansing before welcoming Goddess Lakshmi on Diwali.
4. Can we light diyas in the morning of Naraka Chaturdashi?
Yes, diyas can be lit after the early bath and again in the evening during Pradosh Kaal for maximum spiritual benefit.
5. Which God is worshipped on Naraka Chaturdashi?
Lord Krishna, along with Satyabhama and sometimes Maa Kali or Hanuman (depending on region), is worshipped on this day.