Know the date, origins, meaning, and significance of Chhoti Diwali as well as how and why Narak Chaturdashi came to be. Additionally, know of how it is celebrated around the country.
Chhoti Diwali often referred to as Naraka Chaturdashi, is observed on the fourteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu calendar month of Ashwin. It is said that Lord Krishna and Satyabhama defeated the demon Narakasura on this day. On the second day of festivities and a day before Diwali, it normally occurs. The second of the five days of Diwali celebrations that begin with Dhanteras is Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi, also known as Bhoot Chaturdashi.
The event is typically observed annually one day before Diwali and one day after Dhanteras. However, due to the solar eclipse that will be seen on October 25, 2022, Chhoti Diwali and Badi Diwali will be enjoyed on the same day this year, i.e., Monday, October 24, 2022.
Narakasura, according to Hindu mythology, assaulted the heavenly and terrestrial kingdoms. Narakasura was later put to death after being defeated by Krishna and Satyabhama in battle.
Lord Krishna, Maa Kali, Yama, and Hanuman are all honoured on this day. It is believed that worshipping them can help one elevate himself and make reparations for their misdeeds. Prasad comprised of sesame seeds, jaggery, rice flakes, ghee, and sugar is offered to the gods and goddesses, along with oil, flowers, sandalwood, coconut, and other materials for samagri. Abhyanga Snan is also very important on this day because it is said to be able to stop Narak Darshan. After taking a bath, worshippers worship Yamaraj, the God of Death, by chanting mantras and immersing black sesame seeds in water.
There are numerous ways in which Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated around the nation.
Throughout the nation, different regions observe Narak Chaturdashi in various respects. While it is celebrated as Tamil Deepavali in Tamil Nadu and it is known as Chhoti Diwali in northern India.
In West Bengal, the day is known as Bhoot Chaturdashi, and it is commemorated by the lighting of 14 diyas to honour a family's 14 founding fathers. According to legend, the ancestors visit their relatives to help them and eliminate challenges in their lives. Burning Narakasura effigies decorated with firecrackers and grass in Goa symbolise the eradication of ignorance and evil. Abhyanga Snan has a lot of significance in Maharashtra on this day.
During Abhyanga Snan, til or sesame oil should be utilised for ubtan. In addition to chanting mantras and immersing black sesame seeds in water, people also worship Yamraj, commonly known as the God of Death.
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