Naraka Chaturdashi, popularly known as Choti Diwali, marks one of the most spiritually significant days in the grand Diwali festival. Observed on the fourteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartika, this day symbolizes the eternal triumph of light over darkness and virtue over evil.
The Mythological Origins
At the heart of Naraka Chaturdashi lies the legend of Narakasura, a mighty but arrogant demon king who once ruled the earth and heavens with terror. Born to Bhudevi (Mother Earth) and blessed with immense power, Narakasura’s greed and cruelty led him to capture celestial beings and innocent women, spreading fear across realms.
The gods appealed to Lord Vishnu for deliverance, and he incarnated as Krishna to fulfill the divine mission. Alongside his consort, Satyabhama—believed to be an incarnation of Bhudevi—Krishna confronted Narakasura in a fierce battle. In keeping with Brahma’s boon that Narakasura could be slain only by a woman, Satyabhama ultimately struck the fatal blow with her arrow, liberating thousands from bondage.
Before his death, Narakasura realized the weight of his misdeeds and requested that his passing be celebrated with light and joy, rather than sorrow. Thus, the festival of Naraka Chaturdashi emerged as a day celebrating the end of evil and the awakening of light in human hearts.
The Spiritual Meaning
The deeper essence of Naraka Chaturdashi lies in its symbolism. “Naraka” means hell, and “Chaturdashi” refers to the fourteenth day—together signifying freedom from inner darkness. The festival invites devotees to cleanse their lives of ignorance, anger, and greed, replacing them with purity, clarity, and compassion.
The theme of cleansing is seen in the early morning Abhyanga Snana, an oil bath ritual believed to wash away sins and negativity. Lighting diyas throughout homes reflects the spiritual transformation from within, as people illuminate not just their spaces but their souls.
Rituals and Practices
Across India, Naraka Chaturdashi is observed with unique customs that blend devotion, purification, and celebration:
• Abhyanga Snana: Families wake before sunrise for the sacred oil bath to purify body and mind.
• Lighting of Lamps: Homes are adorned with diyas and lamps symbolizing divine light dispelling darkness.
• Prayers and Offerings: Devotees worship Lord Krishna, Goddess Kali, or Yamraj for protection, courage, and spiritual cleansing.
• Feasts and Festivities: Sweets like laddoos and karanjis are prepared and shared as symbols of joy and unity.
In western India, the day is also called Kali Chaudas, honoring Goddess Kali for destroying demonic forces like Raktabija, symbolizing the vanquishing of ego and negativity.
Naraka Chaturdashi in the Modern World
In today’s era, Naraka Chaturdashi has evolved beyond its mythological roots into a festival of reflection and renewal. It serves as a reminder to conquer the “Narakasura” within—our own destructive impulses—and embrace kindness, gratitude, and self-awareness.
Many people now celebrate the day with eco-friendly diyas, sustainable décor, and charity drives to extend the light of compassion into society. The day stands as a spiritual prelude to Diwali, reminding all that before lighting the world, one must first light the self.
Conclusion
Naraka Chaturdashi is more than a tale of divine victory; it is a timeless allegory of inner purification. From the valor of Satyabhama to the illumination of the first diya, the festival continues to teach that every soul, no matter how shadowed, can rediscover its brilliance when guided by truth, humility, and light.
