Naraka/Bhoot Chaturdashi are celebrated for the end of darkness. They are to be observed tomorrow on October 20th. Both Naraka Chaturdashi and Bhoot Chaturdashi are a time to reflect and to be cleansed of negativity and renewal of energy. Narak means hell and Narakasura was called the Asura (monster) from Hell. Bhoot means ghost and in Bhoot Chaturdashi we become mindful and realize that we are not alone.
Narak Chaturdashi is considered auspicious as it is a celebration of good triumphing over evil. It is celebrated one day before Diwali and is also called Choti Diwali. Bhoot Chaturdashi is a remembrance of ancestors. According to the Kathopanishad, people should not imagine their ignorance to be wisdom and traverse in the darkness. The lighting of lamps, are not only for the departed but they burn for the living as an admonition. The gesture is to urge them to walk the path of Dharma constantly. Each lamp is also an offering to Yam, the cosmic keeper of Karma and a gain an indication to live a pure life. Both Narak and Bhoot Chaturdashi are celebrated on the 14th day of the Lunar calendar.
Rangoli
In many parts of India, Naraka Chaturdashi is celebrated because Krishna killed Naraka Asura, the demon, who had spread terror in all corners of the three worlds. 16,000 captive maidens were liberated. Several rituals are followed to celebrate Naraka Chaturdashi. An oil bath is customary with uptan (scrub). This is the scrub out of which Ganesha was created. This rejuvenates the body and makes one beautiful. Lamps are lit at the main entrance, prayer area, near the Tulsi plant. Lamps dispel both inner and outer darkness and symbolize prosperity and happiness. The house is cleaned and a rangoli is made.
In Bengal, Bhoot Chaturdashi honors the ancestors in a unique way. On this day, ancestors from fourteen generations are honored. They return as spirits to protect and bless their descendants. They make a vegetable from 14 kinds of green. It happens the night before Diwali, when people light 14 lamps, in different corners of the house.
Dear ones, by lighting of the lamps we are illuminating our inner selves.
Aim Hrim Klim