Story of Naraka Chaturdashi

November 09, 2023 Thursday

Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, is a festival celebrated a day before the main Diwali festival in India. It is associated with the story of Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura. Here is the story of Naraka Chaturdashi: The Legend of Narakasura: Narakasura was a powerful and cruel demon who ruled the kingdom of Pragjyotishapura. He had become a tyrant and terrorized both heaven and earth. Narakasura was known for his arrogance and wickedness, and he had imprisoned many celestial beings and abducted young women. Unable to bear his atrocities, the gods approached Lord Krishna and sought his help in defeating Narakasura. Lord Krishna, along with his consort, Satyabhama, agreed to confront the demon and end his tyranny. On the day of Naraka Chaturdashi, Lord Krishna and Satyabhama, riding on Lord Krishna's mount Garuda, arrived at Pragjyotishapura to face Narakasura. A fierce battle ensued between Narakasura and Lord Krishna, during which Narakasura displayed his extraordinary powers. Despite Narakasura's strength, Lord Krishna ultimately emerged victorious and killed the demon. Narakasura realized the error of his ways and sought forgiveness before his death. Lord Krishna granted him forgiveness, and with his last breath, Narakasura repented for his sins. After defeating Narakasura, Lord Krishna released all the captive women and celestial beings imprisoned by the demon, restoring freedom and justice. The people of Pragjyotishapura were relieved from the tyrant's oppression, and the entire kingdom rejoiced. To celebrate the victory of good over evil and the liberation of their loved ones, the people of Pragjyotishapura illuminated the kingdom with oil lamps and celebrated with great enthusiasm. This joyful celebration marked the origin of the Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali festival, which is observed with the lighting of lamps, bursting of fireworks, and the sharing of sweets. Naraka Chaturdashi is an important precursor to the main Diwali festival, and it serves as a reminder of the triumph of righteousness and the vanquishing of evil forces, which is a common theme in many Indian festivals.