Choti Diwali,Chhoti Diwali 2009, Naraka Chaturdashi, Narak Chaturdasi

The Diwali eve is popularly called as 'Choti Diwali'. It is the day when preparations for Diwali celebrations are on it's full swing and vigor. But not many are aware of the fact that the day has it's own religious importance. It is the same auspicious day when the great Lord Krishna killed Demon Narakasura, thereby restoring harmony in the three worlds. Known as Naraka Chaturdasi, it is one of the series of festive occasions that fall during the Diwali season.


On this day, it is believed that in Dwapar Yuga, Lord Krishna put an end to the terror of Narakasura. There is a long and an interesting legendary story behind it. Narakasura was the son of Goddess Bhoomi. But despite divine ascendancy, he had devilish tendencies due to which people of all three world were under threat. He was powerful and therefore nobody could stop him from looting, plundering, hampering the prayer offerings of sages and abducting womenfolk. He had created utter menace. Lord Indra tried to fight but failed and therefore went to Lord Krishna for help. Lord Krishna was spending some recreational time with his wife Satyabhama, but had to leave immediately as the situation was getting more and more tensed. Riding on his divine vehicle mouse, Lord Krishna along with his wife reached the fort of Narakasura, 'Pragjyotishapura'. First the guard of the fort was beheaded and finally Narakasura came face to face with Shri Krishna. Lord Krishna killed him too.


The mother of Narakasura declared that the death of son is something to be celebrated and since then, Lord Krishna is commemorated to save many innocent lives that could have been sacrificed because of the ill-deeds of Narakasura. The rituals of Naraka Chaturdasi consist of giving bathe to the idol of Lord Krishna and then decorate him with traditional flashy clothes and jewelry. Prayers are offered to the deity, thereafter.

In present times, Choti Diwali sets the mood of the fun and frolic atmosphere of the forthcoming day. The prayers to Lord Krishna are followed by decorating house, eating delicious dishes, exchanging gifts and bursting crackers as well. While Diwali signifies the triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana, Choti Diwali is in the honor of Lord Krishna's triumph over Narakasura. Thus, the meaning is the same. Both the stories encourage us to take the path of goodness that would surely lead us to happiness and glory.