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DEEPÃVALI  (THE STORY OF NARAKÃSURA)	Return to Articles Index
Deepãvali festival is observed in fulfillment of the boon Lord Krishna gave to the demon Narakãsura on the eve of Narakãsura's death. Once, the territory known as Prãgjyotisha was ruled by an asura (demon) known as Naraka, who was the son of Mother Earth. By propitiating Brahma through austere penance, Narakãsura became very powerful and arrogant. Out of ignorance and pride, he began to oppress all the worlds, including the Gods and sages. He took the precious earrings that adorned Aditi, the mother of Indra; the famed umbrella of Varuna and other property cherished by the Gods. The terrified Gods appealed to Lord Krishna and sought His protection. Lord Krishna comforted the Gods and assured them that He would soon punish Narakãsura. Immediately, Lord Krishna climbed on His Garuda (Eagle), and proceeded to Prãgjyotisha, and as He approached the city He blew conch pãnchajanya. The sound of the conch woke up the five-headed demon Mura, who was gaurding the city. The demon rushed toward Lord Krishna, but the Lord killed him very easily and entered the city. Hearing of Mura's death, Narakãsura emerged from his fortress accompanied by an army of elephants. He resisted Lord Krishna and after a fierce battle, Lord Krishna hurled His Sudaršana (Discus) at the demon and killed him. Before he died, however, Narakãsura realized the folly of his past misdeeds and begged for Lord Krishna's forgiveness. Out of compassion, Lord Krishna forgave him. Narakãsura also asked the Lord to grant him a boon and requested that all persons taking a holy oil bath on the anniversary of that day, be saved from all evils. Lord Krishna was moved by his broad-minded request and granted the boon. For this reason, the anniversary day of Narakãsura's death is celebrated as a festive day be feasting, wearing new clothes and lighting rows of lamps, symbolizing removal of darkness/ignorance and unveiling light or knowledge. Thereafter, Bhumi, the mother of Naraka, came to the Lord and placed at His feet, the earrings of Aditi, the umbrella of Varuna and all other belongings of Gods forcibly taken by Naraka. Lord Krishna immediately proceeded to the heavens and handed over the recovered items to the respective Gods.
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