Narak Chaturdashi, the festival, highlights the story of demon king Narakasura, who has a boon that only his mother can vanquish. Narakasura, the son of Bhudevi (Mother Earth), was blessed with immense power and eventually became a tyrant. His reign of terror extended across the heavens and Earth as he captured 16,000 women and imprisoned them in his palace. After seeing his dominance over the earth, the gods went to Lord Krishna to seek help. Lord Krishna, along with his wife Satyabhama (an incarnation of Bhudevi), went to war with Narakasura. During the battle, Satyabhama fought alongside Krishna and ultimately delivered the fatal blow to Narakasura, thus ending his reign of terror.
Before his death, Narakasura requested that his death be celebrated with joy, not sorrow. Thus, his defeat is commemorated with the lighting of lamps and festivities, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Significance of Narak Chaturdashi
Narak Chaturdashi is a powerful reminder that righteousness always prevails. Its significance is multi-layered, touching on spiritual purity, the dispelling of darkness, and reverence for ancestors.
Triumph of Good Over Evil: At its core, the day celebrates Lord Krishna's and Satyabhama's victory over the demon Narakasura, freeing 16,000 women and restoring cosmic order.
Cleansing of Sins (Abhyang Snan): The ritual pre-dawn bath, or Abhyang Snan, is deeply symbolic. Applying a special paste (ubtan) and aromatic oils is believed to cleanse the body and soul of impurities and sins, making one ready to welcome the divine energy of Diwali.
Averting Untimely Death (Yama Deepam): This is the one day during Diwali when Lord Yama, the god of death, is worshipped. Lighting a four-wick diya (Yama Diya) facing south outside the home is believed to appease him and protect the family from untimely death.
Celebrating Feminine Power (Shakti): The story prominently features Satyabhama, an incarnation of Bhudevi, who delivers the final blow to her son Narakasura. It is a powerful celebration of shakti - the divine feminine strength required to conquer evil.
How to Perform the Narak Chaturdashi Rituals
To observe Narak Chaturdashi traditionally, follow these simple steps for the two most important rituals:
The Abhyang Snan (The Sacred Bath):
This ritual bath should be taken before sunrise during the Abhyang Snan Muhurat.
Prepare the Ubtan: Create a paste using gram flour (besan), turmeric, sandalwood powder, and a little milk or sesame oil.
Apply Oil: Liberally apply warm sesame oil all over your body.
Apply the Ubtan: After the oil, apply the ubtan paste and let it dry for a few minutes.
Bathe: Scrub the paste off as you bathe in warm water. This act signifies the removal of laziness, negativity, and impurities.
Lighting the Yama Deepam:
This lamp should be lit in the evening, after sunset.
Prepare the Diya: Take an old earthen lamp (diya) and fill it with mustard oil. Place a cotton wick in it, ideally one with four faces. If not available, a single wick will do.
Add a Coin: It is traditional to place a small coin inside the diya.
Light and Place: Light the lamp and place it outside your main door, on the right side, facing south. This direction is associated with Lord Yama.
Pray: Offer a prayer to Lord Yama for the well-being and long life of all family members.
Regional variations in celebrations
