Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated the day before the grand Diwali festival. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Rooted in the ancient tale of Lord Krishna’s triumph over the demon Narakasura, this day is filled with rituals, symbolic traditions, and spiritual practices. From morning prayers to lighting diyas, every aspect of Choti Diwali encourages peace, purity, and divine blessings, preparing homes and hearts for Diwali’s arrival.
What is Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is a significant day in the five-day Diwali festival celebrated primarily across India. It falls on the fourteenth day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik, right before the main Diwali day. This occasion holds great religious and cultural value, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Devotees observe various rituals and customs to honour the spirit of the festival. Choti Diwali sets the stage for the grand Diwali celebrations, filled with lights, prayers, and family gatherings.
Origin
The origin of Choti Diwali is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, specifically linked to the powerful story of Lord Krishna’s battle with the demon Narakasura. Narakasura had unleashed terror on earth, causing suffering among people. Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura on this day marked the end of tyranny and a renewed sense of hope and peace. Over time, this day has come to signify the removal of darkness and ignorance, replacing it with light, wisdom, and prosperity.
Choti Diwali Etymology
“Choti Diwali” translates to “Small Diwali,” as it precedes the main Diwali celebration. “Naraka Chaturdashi” derives from two Sanskrit words: “Naraka,” referring to the demon Narakasura, and “Chaturdashi,” meaning the fourteenth day of the lunar cycle. This name commemorates Narakasura’s defeat and reminds devotees of the importance of righteousness, courage, and the triumph of divine power over evil forces.
History of Choti Diwali
Mythology and Legends
Choti Diwali’s history is intertwined with captivating mythological tales, the most popular of which is Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. According to legend, Narakasura, blessed with great powers, became arrogant and misused his strength, tormenting people and even capturing 16,000 women. Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama fought fiercely, ultimately slaying Narakasura. This victory not only liberated the captives but also reinstated peace. The day is celebrated to remember this triumph, portraying Lord Krishna as the ultimate protector and symbol of divine justice.
In some regions, Naraka Chaturdashi is also associated with the worship of Goddess Kali and Lord Yama, the God of Death. It is believed that offering prayers to these deities on this day can protect one from untimely death and negative influences.
Names and Variations of Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali is known by different names across India. In Maharashtra, it is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, while in South India, it is called Deepavali. In certain regions, it is also called Roop Chaudas, where people engage in beauty and grooming rituals as part of the observance. Each name reflects regional customs and highlights the diversity within the celebration. Despite the variations, the central theme remains consistent: the victory of light over darkness.
Facts About Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali holds several interesting facts and unique practices. For instance, it is believed that taking a holy bath early in the morning on Choti Diwali cleanses the soul and removes negative influences. Traditional oil lamps are lit to ward off evil and attract divine blessings. Many devotees also prepare a special mixture known as “Ubtan,” a paste made from herbs and fragrant ingredients, symbolizing purification. The day is considered auspicious for family bonding, and it carries a significant spiritual undertone that adds depth to the Diwali celebrations.
Dates and Time of Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali is celebrated on the fourteenth day (Chaturdashi) of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, generally falling in October or November. The exact date varies according to the lunar calendar. The observance typically begins in the early morning with rituals and continues throughout the day. Many people follow an auspicious timing known as the “Abhyanga Snan” for the holy bath, which is believed to offer spiritual cleansing and divine blessings.
Religious Significance of Choti Diwali
The religious significance of Choti Diwali is profound. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, with Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura being a pivotal example. The festival represents the cleansing of negativity, emphasizing purity, peace, and divine protection. It encourages devotees to eliminate negative thoughts and practices, replacing them with compassion, righteousness, and devotion. The day is also considered an auspicious time for seeking blessings from deities for health, prosperity, and peace.
Traditions and Symbolism
Choti Diwali is rich in traditions and symbolism. Lighting oil lamps or diyas is a widespread custom, symbolizing the spread of light, knowledge, and spiritual awakening. “Ubtan” during morning rituals signifies the purification of the body and soul. People clean their homes meticulously, preparing them for the arrival of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. This day also encourages giving, as many families distribute sweets and food to those in need, embracing the spirit of generosity.
Reasons for Celebration of Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali is celebrated as a prelude to the main Diwali festival, reminding devotees of the importance of virtue, courage, and humility. The day honours Lord Krishna’s righteous victory, which brings hope and reaffirms faith in divine justice. It serves as a reminder to rid oneself of darkness and embrace positivity, setting a spiritual tone for the grand Diwali day. This celebration provides an opportunity for introspection, allowing individuals to cleanse their thoughts and surroundings.
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated for several reasons:
Commemorating the Victory of Good Over Evil:
- Lord Krishna’s Triumph marks the day when Lord Krishna defeated the demon king Narakasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
- Celebrating Light Over Darkness: The festival signifies the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.
Spiritual Significance:
- Purification and Renewal: Choti Diwali is a time of spiritual purification and renewal. People take oil baths, wear new clothes, and clean their homes to welcome positive energy.
- Worshiping Lord Yama: On this day, people worship Lord Yama, the God of Death, to seek his blessings and protection from untimely death.
Cultural Significance:
- Family and Community Bonding: Choti Diwali brings families and communities together to celebrate, share joy, and strengthen bonds.
- Cultural Heritage: It is a vibrant celebration of Hindu culture and traditions passed down through generations.
Joy and Festivity:
- Decorations and Lights: Homes are adorned with beautiful decorations and illuminated with diyas, creating a festive atmosphere.
- Fireworks and Crackers: The night sky is lit up with colourful fireworks and crackers, adding to the excitement and joy of the occasion.
- Sweet Delights: People exchange sweets and delicacies with loved ones, sharing the sweetness of the festival.
By celebrating Choti Diwali, Hindus honour their cultural heritage, seek divine blessings, and experience the joy and festivities of this auspicious occasion.
Ways to Celebrate Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi
Celebrating Choti Diwali includes various practices, such as decorating homes with colourful rangoli, lighting diyas, and participating in family prayers. Many people observe a holy bath early in the morning to purify themselves. Traditional meals and sweets are prepared, and homes are adorned with fresh flowers. The day also involves visiting temples and participating in community events. Some families prefer to spend time together, reflecting on the importance of unity, gratitude, and compassion.
Festivals Related to Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali is part of a larger festival series that includes several other observances. These include Dhanteras, the first day dedicated to health and wealth, and Diwali, the main day honouring goddess Lakshmi. Following Choti Diwali is Govardhan Puja, which celebrates Krishna’s divine powers. Finally, there is Bhai Dooj, a festival dedicated to the sibling bond. Each festival within Diwali has its unique significance, collectively embodying a journey of light, protection, prosperity, and family unity.
Religious Customs of Naraka Chaturdashi
Religious customs for Choti Diwali include performing Abhyanga Snan (ritual bath) with special oils, which are believed to ward off negativity. The day also involves offering prayers to Lord Krishna and lighting diyas to dispel darkness. Many families prepare an altar adorned with idols and images of deities. The recitation of prayers and hymns is common, and some people also observe fasts, praying for divine blessings, prosperity, and protection from negative energies.
Puja and Rituals of Naraka Chaturdashi
Puja on Choti Diwali is conducted with devotion, seeking blessings for health and prosperity. A special puja thali is prepared with diyas, flowers, kumkum, and sweets and offered to deities during the prayers. The ritual bath, Abhyanga Snan, is taken before dawn, symbolizing the cleansing of sins and negative influences. People also apply the “Ubtan” paste, which has spiritual significance. Diyas are placed around the house, signifying the presence of divine energy and spreading warmth, light, and peace.
Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, is a significant day in the Hindu festival of Diwali. Here are some of the key puja and rituals associated with this day:
- Early Morning Rituals
- Abhyanga Snan: Devotees take an early morning oil bath, often using sesame oil or herbal oils. This ritual is believed to cleanse the body and soul, removing negative energies.
- Ubtan: Before the bath, people apply a paste made of gram flour, turmeric, and other herbs to exfoliate their skin.
- Puja Rituals
- Worship of Lord Krishna: Devotees worship Lord Krishna, who is believed to have killed the demon Narakasura on this day.
- Lighting Diyas: Diyas (clay lamps) are lit in homes and temples to symbolize the victory of light over darkness.
- Offering Sweets: Sweets are offered to Lord Krishna and shared among family and friends.
Final Words
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, marks the penultimate day of the five-day Diwali festival. It is a significant day for Hindus, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. Today, people clean their homes, take oil baths, and wear new clothes to welcome prosperity and good luck. The day culminates in the burning of crackers, signifying the destruction of evil forces.
In conclusion, Choti Diwali is a vibrant and meaningful celebration with deep cultural and religious significance for Hindus. It is a time for introspection, purification, and the renewal of hope. By understanding the rituals and traditions associated with this day, we can appreciate the rich heritage of Hindu culture and its enduring power to inspire and uplift.
