The word ‘Diwali’ refers to a celebration that brings light over darkness, good over evil, and wisdom over ignorance. Among the most notable Diwali legend is that of Narakasura, is a mighty demon who is celebrated in relation to his victory during this festival. This week’s article explores Narakasura and his links with Diwali.
The Tale of Narakasura
The earth goddess Bhudevi and the demodemon king Varaha were said to have had Narakasura for their son. His reign of terror and ruthlessness paralyzed the earthlings as well as heavenly gods. Narakasura grew with unquenchable thirst for power, subduing several kingdoms and incarcerating thousands of Apsaras.
In misery, the Apsara cried up to the sky, and even the gods could not bear it anymore. In their desperation to put a stop to Narakasura’s rule of violence, they turned to lord Krishna who is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Lord Krishna’s Intervention
Moved by the supplications of the gods, Krishna the lord along with his wife Satyabhama marched against Narakasura. During this war, Lord Krishna fought with Narakaasura. The armies were pitted against each other in one of the most titanic battles known in history, however, the side of good was victorious, with Narakasura being vanquished.
Lord Krishna set the imprisoned Apsaras free in a symbolic gesture of victory and deprived Narakasura of his captives. The act of liberation symbolized the victory of justice for the persecuted and the release of the poor from the grasp of crime.
Nevertheless, Narakasura died and asked one last favor of Vishnu Krishna just before he departed for Vaikuntham. Since he knew that his days were numbered, he requested that there should be celebrations with lights so that people never forget him. Therefore, Lord Krishna agreed to the request which then saw darkness turning into happiness.
Diwali: The Celebration of Narakasura’s Demise
However, before the main festivity, there is a minor festival known as the Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi that marks the day when Narakasura was defeated and subsequently requested for a grand party.
To celebrate the triumph of light over darkness they light oil lamps, diyas, and firecrackers on Choti Diwali symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Deepavali is a day celebration in south India and it underscores that lighting lamp is an excellent way of eliminating darkness.
In India, the festival of lights celebrated every year in Diwali signifies victory, hope and the triumph of light against darkness. Although the story of Narakasura is fictional, it has a deep meaning about morality and freedom for the enslaved.
Each year, as Diwali draws nearer, it reminds its observers of perennial values such as goodness over evilness, light over darkness and knowledge over darkness. May Diwali remain a light for hope and unity of goodness.