The Real Story Behind Naraka Chaturdashi

Every Deepavali morning, before sunrise, homes glow with the soft light of lamps. This early morning celebration is called Naraka Chaturdashi, but very few know the full story behind it. It is not only a story of battle and victory, but also one of love, courage, and a mother’s strength.

Long ago, the Earth Goddess Bhumi Devi and Varaha, the boar form of Vishnu, had a son named Narakasura. When he was born, Bhumi Devi asked for a blessing that her child would live long and be powerful. Vishnu granted that wish and said that no one except his own mother could ever kill him.

For many years, Narakasura ruled wisely. But power slowly made him proud. He began to trouble people and even the gods. He took what was not his and spread fear everywhere. The world that once felt safe became dark.

The gods prayed to Vishnu for help. In time, Vishnu was born on Earth as Krishna. His wife Satyabhama was no ordinary queen. She was Bhumi Devi reborn, the same mother of Narakasura, come again to set things right.

When Narakasura’s cruelty became unbearable, Krishna went to fight him. Satyabhama went with him in the chariot. The battle was fierce. Arrows filled the sky and thunder echoed over the land. Narakasura fought with great strength, but when his arrow struck Krishna, he fell for a moment.

Seeing Krishna hurt, Satyabhama’s heart filled with courage. In that instant, she remembered who she truly was, the Earth Goddess and the mother of Narakasura. She lifted her bow and released an arrow. That arrow struck Narakasura and ended his cruelty. The old promise was fulfilled. Only the mother could defeat her son.

As Narakasura lay on the battlefield, his pride faded. He understood the harm he had done and asked for one final wish. He wanted people to remember his death not with sorrow but with joy. He wanted the world to light lamps and celebrate the return of goodness.

Krishna granted his wish.

The next morning, people woke to peace and light. Lamps glowed in every home. The world was once again bright and calm. That day became Naraka Chaturdashi, the morning before Deepavali.

When you light your dheepam before sunrise, remember this story. It is not just about a battle long ago. It is a reminder that even the greatest darkness can fade when love and courage rise together.