The story behind Naraka Chaturdashi
The day is observed with abhyanga snan before sunrise, oil lamps, cleansing of the home, prayers for release from tamas, and preparations for Lakshmi Puja. In South India, it is often the main Diwali …
The day is observed with abhyanga snan before sunrise, oil lamps, cleansing of the home, prayers for release from tamas, and preparations for Lakshmi Puja. In South India, it is often the main Diwali celebration, remembering Krishna and Satyabhama's victory.
Gau Seva on Naraka Chaturdashi honours liberation from darkness through compassion. Feeding cows before the lamps of Diwali are lit is a way to ensure that the household's light reaches beyond itself. It invokes Krishna's protective grace and turns victory over Narakasura into care for gentle beings.