Deepavali

Many people would say Deepavali.

On that day, you get up early in the morning, bathe, wear new clothes and burst crackers. You eat a lot of sweets that your mother has prepared, don’t you? You will now learn something about Deepavali. King Naraka ruled over Pragjotisha. He was an Asura. He was Mother Earth’s son. He performed severe tapas. He obtained great power from Brahma in return. He became very proud of his strength. He started doing wicked things.

Aditi was the wife of Rishi Kashyapa. Naraka snatched away her ear-rings. He also put thousands of women from different parts of the country in prison. Devas were afraid of him. They came to Lord Krishna. They begged him to punish Naraka. Krishna agreed.

Krishna flew to Pragjotisha on Garuda, the bird-king. Krishna’s wife, Satyabhama, also went with him. A great fight began between Krishna and Naraka. At last Krishna slew Naraka with his Chakrayudha. Before- dying, Naraka begged Krishna’s forgiveness. He also asked Krishna for a boon. The boon was, "May people who have a holy bath on this day every year to save themselves from all the evils." Krishna granted the boon.

That is why we celebrate Deepavali every year by lighting lamps and decorating our houses. This day is also known as Naraka Chaturdasi.

(From Culture Course-BVB)