Narak Chaturdashi and Lakshmi Puja: how the two Diwali days differ in meaning and ritual

Every day of Diwali is held to have its own religious significance. Narak Chaturdashi and Lakshmi Puja are counted among the two most important. Abhyanga snan, a ritual oil bath, is taken early on the morning of Narak Chaturdashi, while on Lakshmi Puja day Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped in the evening. The religious purpose and the mythological background of the two days differ from each other.

Narak Chaturdashi first. The Chaturdashi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin is called Narak Chaturdashi. The day is also known as Choti Diwali. According to mythology, Lord Krishna slew a demon named Narakasura and freed many women held captive by him. The day is observed in joy at deliverance from Narakasura's tyranny.

In Maharashtra, the morning of Narak Chaturdashi has a special tradition of abhyanga snan. People rise before sunrise, apply fragrant oil and ubtan, and bathe. New clothes are then worn, and the day begins with that.

Now Lakshmi Puja. It is one of the most important days of Diwali. On the Amavasya of the month of Kartik, many families worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha and Kubera. Prayers are offered for happiness, prosperity, wealth and grain, and joy to remain in the home. Among traders, there is a tradition of worshipping new account books on this day.

On this day homes are cleaned, rangoli is drawn and lamps are lit. Lakshmi Puja is performed in the evening at an auspicious time. It is customary to light up the entire premises of the home with lamps to welcome Lakshmi.

The difference between the two days can be understood this way. Narak Chaturdashi is linked mainly to Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura and the tradition of abhyanga snan. The main purpose of Lakshmi Puja is to worship Goddess Lakshmi and pray for happiness and prosperity in the home. On Narak Chaturdashi, importance is given to the morning abhyanga snan, while on Lakshmi Puja day it is given to the evening worship and the lighting of lamps.

Both days add to the joy of Diwali. They also carry the message that light, positivity and joy should remain in life.