Dr Divakar Tripathi explains the significance of Yama Deepdaan and traditional worship rituals on Chhoti Diwali 2026. (Img: Pinterest)
New Delhi: The auspicious occasion of Chhoti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, occupies a significant position in the Hindu religious calendar. Observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik, the festival commemorates the victory of righteousness over evil and is traditionally associated with Lord Krishna's destruction of the demon Narakasura. Alongside its mythological significance, the occasion is marked by the ritual of Yama Deepdaan, an important religious observance believed to invoke protection against untimely death and bring peace and prosperity to households.
As devotees prepare for the Diwali festivities, renowned astrologer Dr Divakar Tripathi has highlighted the significance of performing Yama Deepdaan and observing the prescribed traditions associated with Chhoti Diwali and Mahalakshmi worship. He has also emphasised the importance of selecting an appropriate auspicious time, or Shubh Muhurat, for Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja to ensure that religious ceremonies are performed in accordance with traditional Hindu customs.
Naraka Chaturdashi derives its religious significance from the legend of Narakasura, a powerful demon whose tyranny had become a source of suffering for the gods and humanity. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna defeated and killed Narakasura on this auspicious day, restoring righteousness and liberating those held captive by the demon.
The victory symbolises the triumph of good over evil, the destruction of negative forces and the restoration of dharma. Consequently, Chhoti Diwali is regarded as a festival of spiritual purification, positivity and renewal.
The occasion is also popularly known as Roop Chaudas and Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi in different regional traditions. Its observances reflect the broader cultural significance of Diwali, with rituals centred on cleansing, illumination, spiritual well-being and the removal of negativity.
One of the most important traditions associated with Naraka Chaturdashi is Yama Deepdaan, in which devotees light a lamp in the name of Yamraj, the Hindu deity associated with death and justice.
According to traditional Hindu beliefs, lighting a lamp in the evening on Chhoti Diwali and dedicating it to Yamraj is considered auspicious. The ritual is believed to protect family members from untimely death, remove the fear of premature mortality and invite divine blessings for the household.
Yama Deepdaan holds particular significance because it represents a prayer for longevity, protection and the well-being of loved ones. The illumination of the lamp also carries a deeper spiritual message, symbolising the movement from darkness towards light and from fear towards faith.
Dr Divakar Tripathi has highlighted the importance of observing this traditional ritual with devotion and sincerity. The evening Deepdaan is regarded as an important part of Chhoti Diwali celebrations in several Hindu households.
Mahalakshmi Puja and the worship of Lord Ganesha occupy a central place in Diwali celebrations. Goddess Lakshmi is revered as the deity of wealth, prosperity, abundance and good fortune, while Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of auspicious beginnings.
The combined worship of Lakshmi and Ganesha is traditionally performed with the aspiration of securing financial stability, happiness, peace and prosperity for the family.
According to Dr Divakar Tripathi, selecting an appropriate Shubh Muhurat is an important consideration while performing Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja. Hindu religious traditions place considerable emphasis on auspicious timings, with devotees consulting the Panchang to determine favourable periods for important ceremonies.
The selection of an appropriate Muhurat is traditionally believed to enhance the spiritual significance of worship and ensure that rituals are conducted in accordance with established religious practices.
Devotees observing Chhoti Diwali are encouraged to approach the occasion with cleanliness, devotion and adherence to family and regional traditions.
Lighting a lamp in the name of Yamraj during the evening is one of the principal observances associated with the festival. Similarly, preparations for Mahalakshmi and Ganesh worship should be undertaken with due attention to cleanliness, the sanctity of the place of worship and the prescribed religious customs.
The festival also offers an opportunity for families to reconnect with traditional practices and reflect on the deeper spiritual message of Diwali.
Dr Divakar Tripathi's guidance draws attention to the importance of performing these rituals with faith rather than treating them merely as ceremonial activities. The underlying purpose of the observances is to seek divine blessings, cultivate positive thoughts and welcome prosperity and well-being into the household.
While Diwali is widely associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and the illumination of homes, Yama Deepdaan adds another dimension to the festival's religious significance. The ritual reflects the Hindu philosophical understanding of mortality, righteousness and divine protection. By dedicating a lamp to Yamraj, devotees traditionally pray for the longevity and safety of their family members.
Together, the observances of Naraka Chaturdashi and Diwali highlight the significance of light, faith, spiritual cleansing and the victory of good over evil. As households prepare for the festival, the traditions associated with Chhoti Diwali serve as a reminder that the celebration extends beyond material prosperity. It also represents an opportunity to seek spiritual well-being, strengthen family bonds and welcome peace and positivity into everyday life.
