Why Is Chhoti Diwali Celebrated? The Stories And Symbolism
With Diwali, the festival of lights, just around the corner, excitement is in the air as people prepare to celebrate with enthusiasm. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and it’s a time for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, exchanging sweets and gifts, and lighting up homes. However, Diwali is not just a one-day celebration; it is part of a five-day festival that begins with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj.
One of the important days in this sequence is Chhoti Diwali , also known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Roop Chaturdashi, which falls the day before the main Diwali celebration. People light up their homes in anticipation of Diwali, but not everyone knows the various legends associated with Chhoti Diwali. So, why do we actually celebrate this day? Let’s explore the stories behind it.
The Legend of Narakasur’s Defeat
One of the most well-known stories behind Chhoti Diwali is the tale of Narakasur, a demon king who ruled over Pragjyotishpur, a province south of Nepal. According to mythology, Narakasur had defeated several deities, including Lord Krishna, and had imprisoned 16,000 daughters of different gods. He also stole the precious earrings of Goddess Aditi.
However, Lord Krishna eventually fought back. One day before Naraka Chaturdashi, Krishna defeated Narakasur, freeing the imprisoned women and recovering the stolen earrings of Goddess Aditi. On the day of Chhoti Diwali, Krishna returned home victorious, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This is why the day is celebrated as a victory of righteousness.
The Story of Bali Pratipada
Chhoti Diwali is also known as Bali Pratipada, associated with the legend of King Bali, a powerful ruler who posed a threat to the gods. It was feared that Bali might unjustly rule over all three worlds, or lokas. To prevent this, Lord Vishnu appeared before Bali in his Vamana avatar (dwarf form) and asked for just three feet of land.
Underestimating Vishnu, Bali granted his request. Vishnu then covered all three lokas with just two footsteps. When asked where he should place his third foot, Bali humbly offered his head. In this way, Lord Vishnu defeated Bali and reclaimed control over the three worlds. This legend further emphasizes the victory of goodness and humility over greed and arrogance.
The Symbolism of Chhoti Diwali
Chhoti Diwali is not just a precursor to the main Diwali celebration; it carries deep symbolic meaning. The legends surrounding Narakasur’s defeat and Bali’s surrender both highlight the victory of virtue, goodness, and righteousness over evil, greed, and arrogance. By lighting lamps and celebrating Chhoti Diwali, people honor these age-old stories and reaffirm their belief in the triumph of good over evil.
This day serves as a reminder to let go of negativity and prepare ourselves for the blessings and prosperity that Diwali brings.
Chhoti Diwali holds a significant place in the five-day Diwali festival . It celebrates the defeat of darkness and negativity and the return of light, joy, and goodness. Whether it's the story of Lord Krishna defeating Narakasur or Lord Vishnu’s conquest over King Bali, the day symbolizes the power of righteousness and the ultimate victory of good over evil.