In 2023, Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, falls on the day immediately after Dhanteras, which is November 12th. Hindu festivals are observed based on the Panchang, or lunar calendar, rather than the English calendar.
The duration of tithis in the Panchang can vary, sometimes lasting exactly 24 hours and other times being longer or shorter. This year, an unusual occurrence is taking place, where Narak Chaturdashi and the main Diwali festival are celebrated together.
Narak Chaturdashi-Diwali on the Same Day (Narak Chaturdashi and Diwali 2023 Muhurat)
On November 11th, Chaturdashi begins at 1:58 PM and continues until the next day at 2:45 PM. This marks the onset of Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, with Diwali itself following on November 12th. Subsequently, at 2:45 PM, Amavasya begins, lasting until 2:57 PM on the 13th of November, which means Govardhan Puja will not be observed the next day.
Consequently, Diwali will be celebrated on November 12th.
As a result, Annakut, which follows Diwali, will also be celebrated one day later, on November 14th, followed by Bhai Dooj on the 15th of November.
Auspicious Yogas on Diwali 2023
Diwali 2023 brings several auspicious yogas. Shani Dev in the Aquarius sign forming the Shasha Yoga, along with the conjunction of Mars and the Sun, creates a Raj Yoga. Additionally, the presence of Ayushman Yoga and Budhaditya Raj Yoga in the Libra sign will bless individuals from certain zodiac signs with the grace of Goddess Lakshmi.
These auspicious yogas will prove particularly beneficial for Aries, Gemini, and Capricorn natives.On the other hand, individuals belonging to Taurus, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Aquarius, and Pisces signs can expect success in their careers and financial gains, thanks to the positive planetary alignments. Businesspersons will also reap profits from their investments.
Significance of Narak Chaturdashi (Narak Chaturdashi)
Narak Chaturdashi holds great significance as it commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura during the Dwapara Yuga. This victory signified the triumph of justice and the end of tyranny, making the world free from fear. Therefore, it is also known as Roop Chaturdashi, as it symbolizes the victory of Lord Krishna.
On this day, people observe special rituals and worship Lord Krishna. The day begins with an early morning ritualistic bath, applying sesame oil, and massaging the body with sesame seeds and oil, which is believed to enhance beauty and eliminate dryness, leaving the skin radiant.
Importance of Abhyang Snan on Narak Chaturdashi (Narak Chaturdashi Snan Importance)
Abhyang Snan, or the ritualistic bath with oil, is considered highly auspicious on Narak Chaturdashi. Before sunrise, one should wake up and perform this bath, as it is believed to purify the body and enhance one’s appearance. Massaging the body with oil before the bath is essential to remove dryness and enhance one’s physical beauty. After the bath, devotees perform special prayers during Sandhya time and offer oil lamps to the deities.
Significance of Deepdan on Narak Chaturdashi (Narak Chaturdashi Deepdaan Significance)
It is believed that those who light lamps before sunrise on Narak Chaturdashi are spared from going to hell. To perform this ritual, one should first apply oil on their body and then take a bath, adding apamarga leaves to the water. This act is believed to bring radiance, beauty, and an end to any dryness in the body. Those who do not perform these rituals before sunrise are said to face poverty, impurity, and misfortune throughout the year.
Narak Chaturdashi Puja Vidhi (Narak Chaturdashi Puja Vidhi)
On this special day, you can not only enhance your appearance but also seek the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi and your ancestors. To do this, create a swastika symbol using kumkum on both sides of your main door at twilight. Light a lamp with mustard oil and a pinch of rakt gunja, then take a plate and draw an ashtadala symbol using ashtagandha. Place 14 oil lamps on the plate.
Add a few nagkesar flowers to the lamps and take them near a peepal tree. Light the lamps and make 14 rounds around the tree. After completing the rounds, recite the mantra, “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” 11 times and return home. In your home, meditate and seek the blessings of your ancestors, family deities, and Goddess Mahalakshmi. This ritual is sure to bring positive changes to your life.
With these auspicious rituals and yogas, Narak Chaturdashi and Diwali 2023 promise to be a harmonious and prosperous celebration for all.
