Naraka Chaturdashi 2023: Tithi, History, Abhyanga Snan, Significance and Celebrations!
What is Naraka Chaturdashi?
Naraka Chaturdashi is an important festival of Santan Dharma. It is observed on the fourteenth day that is Chaturdashi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin or Kartik according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which typically corresponds to the period of October to November in the Gregorian calendar.
This significant day is celebrated as the second day of the five-day-long Deepawali celebration. Naraka Chaturdashi holds special significance as it celebrates the triumphant victory of Lord Krishna over the formidable demon known as ‘Narakasura’.
It is also known as “Choti Diwali”, or “Roop Chaturdashi” in some places and comes after Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi and before Deepwali. In 2023, it will be celebrated on 12th November.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2023 Tithi
In 2023, Narak Chaturdashi is on November 12; Sunday
- Chaturdashi Tithi Beginning – 01:58 PM on Nov 11
- Chaturdashi Tithi Ending – 02:45 PM on Nov 12
- Abhyang Snan Muhurta: 05:27 AM – 06:42 AM
To know about the time as per your local timings, you can speak to expert pundits and astrologers at NamoAstro.
History of Narak Chaturdashi
It’s about the story of Asur Narakasura, who was defeated on this day by Bhawan Shri Krishna. Narakasura had a unique background. It is said that he was the son of Vishnu, but this happened when Vishnu had assumed the form of a wild boar, which influenced Narakasura’s nature and tendencies. Moreover, Naraka formed a friendship with Mura, who later served as his general. Together, they engaged in numerous battles and caused the deaths of many individuals.
Krishna’s initial target was Mura, as there was no feasible way to confront Naraka with both of them united. Krishna earned the name “Murari” because he triumphed over Mura. According to the legend, Mura possessed formidable magical powers in battle, making him an unstoppable force. Once Mura was defeated, Naraka’s story took on a different tone, focusing more on ceremonial aspects.
In some parts of India, people worship Mahakali or Shakti because they believe that Narakasura was defeated by Kali on this day. This day, called Naraka-Chaturdashi or Kali Chaudas, is about getting rid of laziness and evil in our lives, which can create problems. The main message in this story is about how good can triumph over evil and how working together is important for a strong relationship.
Abhyanga Snan Muhurta and its Significance
The most important ritual on Naraka Chaturdashi is waking up early, before the sun rises, and applying ‘Ubatan’ made from oil, herbs, flowers, and other beauty ingredients. After applying this paste, people take a bath, which is known as ‘Abhyang Snan.’ It is believed that doing this ritual on Naraka Chaturdashi can protect a person from going to Hell and suffering. Not performing this ritual is thought to lead to a trip to Hell.
On this day, people also believe that washing their hair and applying kajal can protect them from the evil eye, known as ‘Kali Nazar.’ Additionally, it’s a tradition to wear new clothes after taking the holy bath.
Some people choose to fast on Naraka Chaturdashi. During this fast, they wholeheartedly worship Devi Lakshmi and Bhagwan Kuber. They break their fast only after completing all the puja rituals.
Naraka Chaturdashi coincides with ‘Hanuman Jayanti,’ so a special puja is offered to Lord Hanuman on this day. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated twice a year. One to honour him on his birth and the other for his victory over evil. People worship him with flowers, oil, and sandalwood. They prepare a special ‘Prasad’ using rice flakes, sesame seeds, jaggery, and coconut, which they offer to the Lord. On Naraka Chaturdashi, various delicious dishes are made using hand-pounded rice, which comes from a fresh harvest. This tradition is especially prominent in both urban and rural areas of Western India.
So, in different places, people celebrate and worship deities in different ways. India is the best example of Unity in Diversity. On the same day, the same festival is celebrated in different ways but with the same theme and context, the victory of good over evil.
Narak Chaturdashi Celebrations
As an integral part of the magnificent Diwali, Naraka Chaturdashi is joyously celebrated throughout the entire country with enthusiasm and devotion. The northern regions of India, in particular, are known for their grand festivities. Meanwhile, in the southern states of India and the state of Maharashtra, Naraka Chaturdashi is distinguished by elaborate and revered bathing ceremonies.
In the Indian state of Goa, Naraka Chaturdashi takes on a unique and vibrant character. For months leading up to the festival, enormous effigies of Narkasura are painstakingly crafted, and they grace the streets in grand processions throughout the day. As night falls, the festivities culminate in the spectacular tradition of setting these effigies ablaze, accompanied by various related celebrations.
In the eastern part of the country, particularly in the state of West Bengal, people celebrate Bhoot Chaturdashi on the day of Naraka Chaturdashi. Bhoot Chaturdashi is observed in the honour of deceased people. In some parts of the country, people observe Kali Chaudas.
On this special day, people celebrating Naraka Chaturdashi convey heartfelt messages to their loved ones. These messages often express hopes for prosperity, happiness, joy, peace, and success. Many also offer prayers for divine guidance to lead a happy and healthy life. Naraka Chaturdashi serves as a reminder that ultimately, evil cannot prevail. So, whatever region you belong to, you are a part of this beautiful celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to celebrate the Narak Chaturdashi?
A: Put on clean or new clothes after an early morning bath. Give gifts or make sweet treats to spread joy. Share wishes for peace and happiness, as it symbolises the victory of good over evil, a universal sentiment.
