Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
नरक चतुर्दशी (छोटी दिवाली)
The day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. People wake before dawn, apply oil, bathe, and light lamps. Sometimes called the "small Diwali" as celebrations begin in earnest.
Why We Celebrate
Narak Chaturdashi commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura (also known as Bhaumasura), who had terrorized the three worlds. Narakasura had imprisoned 16,100 celestial women and stolen the earrings of Aditi, the mother of the gods. He had received a boon that he could only be killed by his own mother — Bhudevi (Mother Earth).
Krishna, accompanied by his wife Satyabhama (an incarnation of Bhudevi), rode into battle on the divine eagle Garuda. After a fierce fight, Satyabhama struck the killing blow, fulfilling the prophecy. Before dying, Narakasura begged for one wish: that the day of his death be celebrated with lights and joy, not mourning. Krishna granted this, and the day became Narak Chaturdashi.
On Choti Diwali, people wake before dawn, apply fragrant oil on their bodies, and take a ritual bath — symbolizing the washing away of sins and negativity. Lamps are lit to celebrate the victory of light over darkness. In South India, this is the main day of Diwali celebrations, with firecrackers at dawn reenacting Krishna's battle.
Did You Know?
- ✦In South India, Narak Chaturdashi (not the next day) is the main day of Diwali celebrations — people wake at 4 AM, take oil baths, and burst crackers before sunrise.
- ✦The 16,100 women freed by Krishna from Narakasura's prison had been rejected by society. Krishna married all of them to restore their honor — a story about dignity and social justice.
Related Festivals
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