Narak Chaturdashi – Mythological Stories and Rituals

Narak Chaturdashi is observed on the 14th day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Kartik. It is celebrated a day before Diwali and is also known as “Chhoti Diwali.” Additionally, it is referred to as “Narak Chaturdashi,” “Narka Puja,” “Rupa Chaturdashi,” or “Rupa Chowdas.”

Significance of Narak Chaturdashi

According to Hindu beliefs, this day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. On the 14th day of Kartik’s Krishna Paksha, Lord Krishna killed Narakasura, freeing the gods and sages from his terror. Krishna also liberated 16,100 captive princesses from Narakasura’s prison. In celebration of this, the people lit oil lamps across the city, and thus began the tradition of celebrating Narak Chaturdashi.

Mythological Story of Narak Chaturdashi

Once upon a time, there was a king named Rantidev. He was deeply devoted to religious and virtuous actions. As his life came to an end, Yamaraja’s messengers arrived to take him to the underworld. The king was shocked and asked them why he was being sent to Narak (hell). The messengers told him that once, a Brahmin had passed by his palace hungry, and he had not fed him. For this neglect, the king had to go to Narak.
Surprised and remorseful, King Rantidev requested Yamaraja to grant him a year’s time to make amends. Yamaraja agreed, and the king sought the advice of sages. The sages suggested that he observe a fast on Kartik Krishna Paksha’s Chaturdashi and feed Brahmins. The king did as advised, and after that, he was freed from the punishment of Narak. This is why the practice of fasting on this day, to gain freedom from sin and Narak, became popular.

Rup Chaturdashi Story

In ancient times, there was a yogi named Hiranyagarbha. One day, he began meditating intensely to attain the Lord’s grace. During his penance, his body became infested with worms, and he suffered greatly. Narada Muni visited the yogi and asked about his condition. The yogi explained his plight, saying that despite his devotion, his body was suffering.
Narada Muni explained that although the yogi had chosen the right path, he had neglected proper bodily discipline. Narada advised him to observe a fast and worship the Lord on Kartik Krishna Paksha’s Chaturdashi. He assured that by doing so, the yogi’s body would be restored to its former beauty and health. Following this advice, the yogi fasted on Rupa Chaturdashi and regained his former health and appearance. From that time, this Chaturdashi became known as Rupa Chaturdashi.

Rituals of Narak Chaturdashi

On this day, it is essential to wake up before sunrise and apply oil or a herbal paste (ubtan) to the body, followed by a bath. It is believed that those who bathe after sunrise on Narak Chaturdashi do not receive the full benefit of their good deeds throughout the year. After the bath, face east, join hands, and pray to Yamaraja. This is said to erase the sins committed during the year.

Special worship is performed on this day. First, prepare a plate with a four-faced lamp (chowmukh diya) and light 16 small lamps. Then, offer sweets, roli, kheer, jaggery, abeer, gulal, and flowers to the deities. After this, worship your workplace and home. Once the puja is complete, place the lamps around your house and light incense before Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. In the evening, perform Deep Daan (lamp offering) to honor Yama, the Lord of Death. Performing these rituals with devotion ensures the removal of sins and blessings from the Lord.