Naraka Chaturdashi 2023: The Hindu festival of Naraka Chaturdashi, which falls on November 12 this year, is observed throughout the majority of India. Diwali, also referred to as Choti Diwali, is observed on the second day of the festival, which spans five days. Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration, which concludes with Bhai Dooj. Kali Chaudas, Roop Chaudas, and Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi are alternative names for this day. It is observed one day subsequent to Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi and one day prior to Lakshmi Puja or Diwali. On this day, individuals rise earlier and observe festivals, ‘pooja’ (worship), and oil massages. Firecrackers are frequently ignited as well.
The History of Naraka Chaturdashi
Naraka Chaturdashi is a profoundly significant religious festival. On this day, demon Narakasura was slain by Krishna, Satyabhama, and Kali, all of whom are considered divine entities in Hindu scripture. As one of the most prominent and universally venerated Hindu deities, Krishna is regarded as the supreme god. Satyabhama, Krishna’s fiery wife, also assisted in the destruction of the demon ruler associated with this day. Kali, denoting time, apocalypse, and death, is named “She Who Is Black” or “She Who Is Death” in Sanskrit.
Certain regions of India observe this day as a sacred occasion for the veneration of Shakti or Mahakali, on the grounds that it is believed that Kali killed Narakasura on this day. Therefore, Kali Chaudas, also known as Naraka-Chaturdashi, is a day to eradicate the vices and sloth that sow havoc in the lives of humans on the planet. This straightforward tale of good triumphing over evil also emphasizes the significance of collaboration and cooperation for the formation of an ideal partnership in a relationship.
In the early hours of Naraka Chaturdashi, a sacred ablution known as Abhyang Snan is performed prior to the onset of dawn. It is believed that applying kajal to the eyes will ward off the nazar, or evil eye. An offering of oil, flowers, and sandalwood constitutes a “pooja.” A multitudea of dishes are crafted utilizing the recently harvested rice that is accessible during that period. Prasads, which simultaneously translate to “grace” or “favor,” consist of jaggery, sugar, ghee, and rice grains. During the nighttime, lamps illuminate residences.
In certain areas, such as Goa, paper effigies of Narakasura that are stuffed with fireworks are meticulously crafted and incinerated in the wee hours of the morning. A bitter berry is pulverized beneath the soles as a symbolic representation of Krishna’s slaying of Narakasura. It represents malevolence and the eradication of ignorance.
There are a few messages that many celebrants send to their loved ones on this day. This encompasses diverse iterations of best wishes for success, happiness, serenity, and prosperity. Additionally, numerous individuals seek divine guidance in order to lead a joyful and healthful existence. Naraka Chaturdashi serves as a poignant reminder that evil eventually perishes.
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Naraka Chaturdashi 2023 FAQs
What is the purpose of the Naraka Chaturdashi celebration?
This day is observed in some regions of India as the day of worship for particular Hindu deities and as a commemoration of the defeat of the demon Narakasura. It is a sacred moment to eradicate sloth and malevolence.
What actions are recommended for Narak Chaturdashi?
On Naraka Chaturdashi, individuals bathe in a holy bath, also known as Abhyanga Snan, and apply ubtan (a mixture of sesame oil, rose water, Ganga, and other essential components) to their bodies before sunrise.
What occurs on every Diwali day?
Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs illumine their residences, temples, and places of business with diyas, lanterns, and candles during the festival. During the festival, Hindus observe a customary oil bath at the break of dawn on each day. Additionally, Diwali is celebrated with pyrotechnics and the artistic application of rangoli patterns to floors.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2023 Activities
Trade treats or presents.
The purpose of Naraka Chaturdashi is to spread pleasure and joy to others. Celebrate the day by preparing delectable dishes or presenting thoughtful gifts to your loved ones. An instance of this is patishapta, a variety of “pitha” that is a delectable Bengali dessert prevalent in both India and Bangladesh. It is traditionally prepared in conjunction with rice harvest festivals. These are confectionery crepes stuffed with a delectable caramelized coconut filling.
Put on new or clean clothing.
This day finds Hindus rising earlier than usual. Prior to bathing, the males will apply perfumed lubricants to their bodies. After that, individuals don spotless garments, with some donning brand-new ones. A hearty brunch is shared with friends and family. You can help your Indian friends celebrate the day, even if you are not of Indian descent, by doing the following sentimental but small activities.
I wish you prosperity and peace!
Observed on this day is the victory of virtue over evil. This is an extremely universal sentiment. Whether you do not identify as Hindu or Indian, your well-wishes for those who observe this day will undoubtedly be appreciated by your friends and acquaintances who observe it in a religious sense.
Five noteworthy details regarding Naraka Chaturdashi
Chandra Narak
Hindus observe the second day of the five-day Deepavali festival as Naraka Chaturdashi or Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi on a global scale. The occasion is precisely commemorated on the fourteenth day of Krishna Paksha during the Ashvin Maas/Month.
Narakasur malevolent
According to Hindu legends, the malevolent Narakasur, the progeny of Mother Earth, imposed his authority over a number of kingdoms. As time progressed, his heinous deeds increased, abandoning those who were vulnerable to his clemency.
Good triumphs at all times.
Narakasur was endowed by Lord Brahma with the ability to be fatally struck by any woman. Consequently, upon assuming the form of Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu formulated a strategy to aid Narakasur in a conflict. Some claim that while Lord Krishna rode Mount Garuda as “saarthi,” his wife Satyabhama attacked and murdered Narakasur.
Kolkata in the east
The festival is observed in a variety of ways across the nation. This day is observed as Kali Chaudas throughout West Bengal, where kali represents darkness and chaudas signifies the fourteenth. Certain areas of Kolkata continue to exhibit Durga Idols until the present day, after which they are submerged overnight.
The Maharashtra
Early before sunrise, families throughout Maharashtra, especially in the cities of Mumbai and Pune, rise and commence their day by partaking in ‘abhyanga snan’ and ‘ubtan’. A unique ubtan is crafted from chandan, ambe haldi, multani mitti, khus, rose, and besan, among other ingredients.
NARAKA CHATURDASHI DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | November 12 | Sunday |
| 2024 | October 31 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 20 | Monday |
| 2026 | November 8 | Sunday |
