Kali Chaudas or Narak Chaturdashi is a significant Hindu festival that is observed nationally before Diwali . 'Choti Diwali' is another name for it. 'Yamraj' the Lord of Death in Hindu mythology, is the focus of this celebration. It is also on this day when the trinity consisting of Krishna, Kali, and Satyabhama slew the demon king Narakasura. Many religious observances, festivals, and rites are linked to this day like Kali Chaudas.
Understanding Narak Chaturdashi: Meaning, Importance, and Regional Significance.
It is an important date in the Hindu festival of Diwali, Narak Chaturdashi is observed on a belief that it signifies Shri Krishna's triumph over the demon Narakasura. As a day to celebrate the victory of good over evil, many also think that by participating in certain rituals on this day, they may purify themselves of whatever troubles or mistakes they may have. Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated in diverse ways throughout India. In the south, people light lamps and take oil baths before sunrise. In the north, they light diyas and burst crackers. Different parts of the country have different cultural importance on this day, and it is shown in the different ways people celebrate it.
Astrological Significance of Narak Chaturdashi: Remedies and Rituals to Mitigate Rahu’s Malefic Effects.
In Vedic astrology, Rahu is a shadow entity; it casts darkness in various aspects of life bringing dissatisfaction, fears, mental distortion, negative thinking and living in fantasy. Those suffering from ill effects of planet Rahu can effectively utilize the day of Narak Chaturdashi / Kali Chaudas to perform remedial processes and worship Goddess Kali to appease Her and get relief from the malefic effects of Rahu.
When is Kali Chaudas (Narak Chaturdashi)? Date, Time, Tithi & Muhurat
Narak Chaturdashi on Thursday, October 31, 2024
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins - 01:15 PM on Oct 30, 2024
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends - 03:52 PM on Oct 31, 2024
Why is Naraka Chaturdashi Celebrated? The Story Behind Kali Chaudas
The day is celebrated as a day of victory-over-evil because Lord Krishna killed the ferocious demon Narakasura on this day. There is a story behind the celebrating Narak Chaturdashi.
The story narrates that Narakasura, an Asura (demon), was plundering both Earth and the world of Gods (Devalok). Even Lord Indra, the King of Gods, failed to stop Narakasura. The Gods requested Bhagwan Vishnu to intervene and save the Earth and heavens. Bhagwan Vishnu, the preserver, promised that the slaying of Narakasura will be done through Shri Krishna, who is an avatar of Vishnu. True to His words, Shri Krishna put an end to Narakasura. Shri Krishna requested his wife Satyabhama, who is the incarnation of Bhumi Devi to come along with him to the battlefield.
Narakasura had been given a boon by Brahma ji that no male will be able to kill him and that only a woman would be the cause of his death. This led the cruel Narakasura to imprison all women who were anywhere in the kingdom. Shri Krishna, with Satyabhama by His side engaged in a fierce battle with the demon. It is said that Shri Krishna had a slight injury inflicted by Narakasura. An enraged Satyabhama made the final assault with Her arrow which killed the demon. Shri Krishna set free all the women whom Narakasura had captivated. Therefore, Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated to commemorate this victory against Narakasura.
Goddess Kali or Maha Kali or Shakti is also worshipped on this day and so the name Kali Chaudas. Among the many versions of the Narak Chaturdashi stories, it is said that Goddess Kali and Shri Krishna together killed Narakasura. Hence, this day is celebrated as the triumph of good over evil in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and some places of Rajasthan. Goddess Kali is powerful and compassionate, and She protects her followers from all evil. On this day, people pray to Her to cure chronic sicknesses, protect them from evil spirits, and help them get out of debt.
Another version of the Kali Chaudas/ Narak Chaturdashi Story says that Goddess Kali decimated the powerful and wicked asura Raktabija on this day and drank his blood. The demon Raktabija along with Shumbha and Nishumbha fought Goddess Parvati and Goddess Kali. Raktabija had been granted a boon that if a drop of his blood fell on the ground it would reproduce a clone or his duplicate. When Goddess Kali saw this during the onslaught, she took her daunting fierce form. Goddess Kali opened her mouth wide and devoured all the clones of Raktabija, slaughtered the original Raktabija and drank his blood. This triumphant incident is said to have occurred on this day of Kali Chaudas.
Bhagwan Hanuman is also worshipped on this day for protection. A Narak Chaturdashi Story is that when Hanuman ji was a mere child, He had gobbled the Sun thinking it's some fruit, plunging the world into darkness. On the day of Narak Chaturdashi, all Gods tried to plead and cajole little Hanuman to release the Sun from His mouth, but Hanuman ji would not listen to anyone. Not finding any other way, Lord Indra used His thunderbolt to hit Hanuman's mouth which released the Sun and brought the light back to the world.
On Dhantrayodashi and Narak Chaturdashi, Yama/Yamraj/Yamdev is worshipped by some people. Yamraj is the deity of death. By worshipping Him on this day liberates one from untimely or sudden death and to avoid going to hell (narak). The puja rituals include lighting 13 wheat flour oil lamps outside the house, facing the flame to the South.
How is Narak Chaturdashi Celebrated Across India: Regional Rituals and Traditions.
The most significant ritual of the Naraka Chaturdasi is that people get up early in the morning (before dawn or before moonrise), apply ubtan (a mixture of sesame oil, herbs, flowers, wheat flour, and turmeric powder) on their bodies, and then take a holy bath or Abhyang Snan.
The oil bath represents the rite performed by Shri Krishna after slaying Narakasura. This is meticulously followed in the Southern states of India with elaborate preparations for the bath, the previous night.
The Abhyanga Snan with the ubtan protects one from poverty, unforeseen events, misfortune, etc.
In West Bengal it is believed that 14 deceased ancestors visit their loved ones, here on earth. So,14 Diyas are lit outside the house in their honor. Narak Chaturdashi is also called Roop Chaturdashi, and it is said that a head bath and application of Kajal is a must on this day to shield oneself from evil eye (buri naazar).
On this day, Shri Krishna is mostly adored. As prasad, sweets are given to family members and others who attended the puja. Snacks such as chaklis and other savory foods are also made. People go to their friends and family's homes in the evening. Lamps are also put inside and outside the homes. Fireworks are an important element of the evening festivities. All these festivities prepare the stage for the grander Diwali celebration the next day.
Narak Chaturdashi & Kali Chaudas Rituals: Abhyang Snan, Lighting Lamps, and Puja Vidhi Explained.
The rituals of Narak Chaturdashi puja are done with offerings of oil, flowers, and sandalwood. Lord Hanuman is offered Coconuts and prasad of sesame seed, jaggery and rice flakes (poha) with ghee and sugar.
In the states of West Bengal, Assam, Orissa and some other states, on Narak Chaturdashi, Kali puja or worship of Goddess Kali is performed with devotion and faith. Some devotees keep the day long fast till the puja is done at midnight. Maa Kali's favorite Red Hibiscus garlands preferably of 108 Hibiscus and flowers are offered to the idol of the divine mother along with other Naivedyam.
The ritual of offering Lemon garlands, of 11 or 108 Lemons, to the Goddess on the occasion of Kali Chaudas / Narak Chaturdashi is prevalent.
Many devotees wear black clothes and visit Kali temples to offer flowers and coconuts to the Deity. Powerful mantras are chanted by the pujaris, devotees offer 'Pushpanjali' while repeating the mantras as per direction from the pujari. It is considered that meditating and praying throughout the night is beneficial for attainment of the spiritual kind.
Step-by-Step Guide to Kali Chaudas Puja Vidhi
Celebrations of the Kali Chaudas Puja Vidhi are observed as:
Early in the morning, believers apply aromatic oils all over their bodies. They wash their hair. People think that kajal may protect them from evil eyes.
To triumph over adversity, poverty, and other negative circumstances, do the Abhyanga Snan ritual before dawn on Kali Chaudas or Narak Chaturdashi day.
It is believed that good fortune and wealth may be attracted by lighting Diyas.
Devotees break their fast with meals eaten after the nighttime Puja vidhi.
It is also believed that the spirits of the departed come to Earth on this day to collect gifts from their loved ones who have passed on.
We worship Lord Hanuman with coconuts, flowers, oil, Chandan, and sindur. Ghee, sesame seeds (Til), jaggery, and rice flakes (Poha) make a unique prasad.
Kali Chaudas ceremonies provide compelling evidence that Diwali was originally celebrated to celebrate harvest. So, traditional rural dishes are made using pounded and partially cooked rice, sourced from the fresh crop that is available. In Western India, this practice is common in both rural and urban settings.
People in certain areas symbolize the annihilation of evil by burning Narakasura effigies constructed of paper with grass and firecrackers inside.
As a sign of vanquishing Narakasura and eradicating ignorance, the crushing of a bitter fruit known as kareet underfoot is revered.
Kali Chaudas Mantra
People take a special bath before dawn or sunrise on this day (Abyangasnan) which is a must-do on Narak Chaturdashi day. Before beginning Abyanga take Sankalp with the following Mantra:
यमलोक दर्शनाभावकामो अहम्भ्यङ्ग्स्नानां करिष्ये ||
“Yamlok darshanabhavokamoabyangam karisye”
What is Abhyang Snan?
On the auspicious day of Narak Chaturdashi or kali Chaudas devotees take a holy ceremonial bath known as Abhyang Skan. Devotees believe that this rite helps purify their souls and bodies in preparation for receiving blessings from the divine. For the spiritual advantages of Abhyang Snan to be maximized, one must meticulously follow the Muhurat, or the best time for the ceremony.
Abhyang Snan: Muhurat, Tithi & Timing
In 2024, the following is the Abhyang Snan Muhurat:
Abhyang Snan Muhurat - 04:34 AM to 05:47 AM
Duration - 01 Hour 12 Mins
Moonrise at Abhyang Snan - 04:34 AM
Traditional practices involve performing the Abhyang Snan using essential oils and herbal pastes before daybreak at this time. This is said to guard against negative energies and welcome good fortune and health into the house. It is believed that the spiritual importance of this ritual, which guarantees protection and blessings for the believers, is enhanced when observed during the specific Muhurat.
The Significance of Abhyang Snan on Narak Chaturdashi.
On Narak Chaturdashi, a sacred bath known as Abhyang Snan is said to have profound spiritual and physiological significance, representing the washing away of sins and the dispelling of evil spirits. Because it is believed that this preparation allows believers to receive the heavenly benefits of the day, the practice is usually conducted before dawn using scented oils and herbal pastes. Bathing during the Muhurat, or auspicious time, is thought to cast away bad spirits and bring wealth and prosperity to the home, therefore it is religiously practiced. The cultural significance of this activity during the Diwali festivals is shown in the broad observance, as the ceremony is practiced with devotion throughout diverse locations.
The Benefits of Celebrating Narak Chaturdashi: Protection, Prosperity, and Spiritual Growth.
Rituals performed on this day protect you against spiritual, mental, and physical difficulties. Kali Chaudas puja not only provides you with a protective shield from all negative energies, but it also has a rebounding effect on anybody who conducts any kind of “kiya karaya” or evil eye on the individual. The Kali Chaudas rituals purge bad energy that impede one’s spiritual growth and financial success.
Goddess Kali is revered as the Goddess of time, creation, destruction and power. The fierce yet compassionate Divine Maa Kali is the protector of Her devotees and protects from evil eye and all things evil including black magic, financial debts, hurdles faced in job or business.
Worshipping the powerful Maa Kali on Narak Chaturdashi pacifies malefic effects of the planet Rahu and Saturn. Her blessings heal chronic, terminal illnesses. She helps to face all fear and makes Her devotees fearless by proving courage. Goddess Kali kills our ego to be reborn as new. Her name is Kali which means black or dark, but She dispels darkness from our lives.
Narak Chaturdashi is apparently a dark night but with tremendous potential to see the light of the Divine.
Products associated with Narak Chaturdashi/Kali Chaudas.
10 Mukhi Rudraksha
The 10 Mukhi Rudraksha is associated with joyfulness, positivity and protection. It neutralizes negative energies around and pacifies the malefices of all nine planets or Navgraha. The 10 mukhi rudraksha is ruled by Lord Krishna, the supreme protector personified. The wearer of 10 mukhi Nepal rudraksha move through life without being influenced by negative people and situations.
Pearl Moti Gemstone
The Pearl gemstones are known as the 'Queen Gems' and are said to symbolize purity, innocence, and modesty. The Pearl gemstone is blessed with inherent healing properties, and it brings balance to the Swadhisthana chakra governed by Shri Krishna.
Krishna Puja
Performing Krishna Puja brings success and growth in career, education and business. It enhances confidence, self-worth, personality and charisma. Krishna Puja also brings good health and spiritual upliftment on Narak Chaturdashi.
Kaali Puja
The worship of Kaali on Kali Chaudas reverses the ill-effects of black magic and frees a person from the bad influences of spirits & ghosts. It also eliminates the harmful effects of malefic planets, especially Saturn, which are usually responsible for misfortunes, sufferings and sorrows in life. Her worship bestows spiritual power, and results in fulfillment of desires, increase in wealth and comforts of life.
Krishna Yantra
This Yantra bestows a person with mental stability, allowing him to remain cool, calm, and composed even in the most difficult and adverse circumstances, allowing him to make the right decisions. It strengthens the worshiper's oratory skills and self-confidence so that he can emerge victorious even in the most trying circumstances. Krishna Yantra also imparts positive energy to the person's aura, thereby making him more healthy, peaceful, and comfortable, as Bhagawan Krishna preaches the doctrine of complete devotion and dedication to God Almighty, who in turn, protects him from all that is evil or harmful and blesses him with peace, tranquility, and contentment. Receive the divine protection of Shri Krishna on Narak Chaturdashi.
Mahakali Yantra
Maha Kali Yantra is an impressive diagram of 5 inverted Triangles (symbol of Shakti) with circles and splendorous lotus petals. Maha Kali Yantra is a very powerful tool that emits the divine power of Mother Kali. This Yantra radiates occult powers that nullify the ill-effects of black magic, freeing the native from the bad influences of spirits and ghosts. This yantra also eliminates the harmful effects of malefic planets, especially Saturn, which is usually responsible for misfortunes, sufferings, and sorrows in life. Kali Yantra bestows spiritual power, results in fulfillment of desires, increases in wealth and comforts. Worshiping the Maha Kali yantra grants total and supreme protection against all calamities and enemies on the powerful night of Kali Chaudas.
Conclusion: Embracing the Spiritual and Cultural Significance of Kali Chaudas/Narak Chaturdashi.
As a major component of the Diwali celebration, Narak Chaturdashi is honored with great respect and devotion in many parts of India. As people recall and honor the legends of deities like Shri Krishna and Goddess Kali who triumphed over evil, this day is characterized by the triumph of good over evil. It is believed that doing rituals like Abhyang Snan, burning diyas, and worshipping deities like Hanuman ji and Yamraj would bring you protection, prosperity, and spiritual progress. The importance of this day is emphasized by the different rituals and traditions that devotees diligently follow, which reflect its diverse cultural and geographical diversity. To get heavenly benefits and to drive out spiritual and physical darkness, the devout engage in these rituals. They hope that this will bring them light, tranquilly, and prosperity.
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