Diwali 2017: Connection between Naraka Chaturdashi and Lord Hanuman
Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali in some parts of the country, is being observed today. One this day, people clean their houses and dispose of their old belongings which are no longer in use.
According to some beliefs, Lord Hanuman, a great devotee of Lord Rama, was born on this day. Epic Ramayana has many versions and written in different languages. Most of these scriptures agree that Lord Hanuman was born a day before main Diwali, i.e. on the day of Naraka Chaturdashi.
Prayers are also offered to the lord of death Yama on Naraka Chaturdashi. According to some traditions, the is a practice of lighting 14 lamps and offering it to Lord Yama.
Narakasura effigy being burnt on Naraka Chaturdashi in Panaji
As per Indian mythology, Naraka Chaturdashi gets its name from the slaying of demon Narakasura at the hands of Lord Krishna. Narakasura had become a big menace for the gods, then Lord Krishna, who is an incarnation of Vishu, slayed the demon. The celebrate this, lamps were lit in Dwarka and hence the day also became known as Chhoti Diwali.
(Image credit - ANI/Twitter)
Bhasma Aarti
'Bhasma Aarti' being performed at Mahakal Temple in Ujjain on Naraka Chaturdashi on Wednesday. The Shiva Linga atMahakal Temple is smeared with ash and prayers are offered. Legend says that Lord Shiva's body is covered in ash.
(Image credit - ANI/Twitter)
Muhurat Timings
Abhyang Snan Muhurta - 04:47am to 06:27am
Duration - 1 hour 40 minutes
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins - 00:08am (midnight) on October 18
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends - 00:13am (midnight) on October 19
OneIndia News