Hindus observe the second day of this festive season as 'Narak Chaturdashi' the next after Dhantersas celebrations. Narak Chaturthi or Choti Diwali this year will be observed on 18th of October 2017.
Hindus observe the second day of this festive season as 'Narak Chaturdashi' the next after Dhanteras celebrations. Narak Chaturthi or Choti Diwali this year will be observed on 18th of October 2017.
Famously termed as Choti Diwali or Narak Nivaran Chaturdashi literally means prevention of hell. (Narak- hell,Nivarana-Prevention). Hence it is believed that people who perform the rituals with great devotion and take the holy dip on this day, can easily prevent going to hell or Narak.
This day holds great significance in Hindu Mythology and is based on the story of Lord Krishna's triumph over demon named 'Narakasur.' Narakasur had kidnapped the 'gopis' (female friends of Lord Krishna) and had provoked Lord Krishna into a battle.
Another version to celebrate this day suggests that Narakasur, the son of Mother Earth, becomes an evil asur who ruled several kingdoms brought under his rule by force. Narakasur comes to rule Heaven and Earth.
Lord Indra pleads with Lord Vishnu who promises to deal with the matter in his incarnation as Krishna. In his incarnation as Krishna, he attacks Narakasur while riding his mount Garuda with his wife Satyabhama and beheads him with the Sudarshan Chakra.
People clean their houses and make Rangolis made from a mixture of rice flour and water. An oil lamp or 'diya' is lit and placed in each room as well as in the backyard through the night to prevent evil energies. Hindus also perform Abhyang Snan, a holy dip or bath in water in order to prevent hell.
This day is also known as Roop Chaturdashi and Roop Chaudas because sesame (til) oil and an ubtan is prepared of sandalwood powder, haldi (turmeric), besan milk & milk cream and used as face mask during the holy dip.
If you wish to follow the rituals and the ceremonies a note of the timings or Muhurat is all what you need:
Abhyang Snan Muhurta - 04:47am to 06:27am
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins - 00:08 on 18th of October,2017
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends - 00:13 on 19th of October,2017
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 "Happy Diwali 2017")
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