Diwali - Naraka Chaturdashi

The story of Krishna killing Narakasura is one of the most celebrated legends in Hindu mythology, deeply connected with the festival of Deepavali (Diwali) — particularly the day known as Naraka Chaturdashi. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and righteousness over arrogance.

Table of Contents

The Legend of Narakasura

Narakasura, the son of Bhudevi (Mother Earth) and Varaha (the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu), was born with immense power and strength. Although his birth was divine, Narakasura was consumed by arrogance and desire for domination as he grew older.

He ruled the kingdom of Pragjyotishapura (modern-day Assam) and became a tyrant. Under the influence of evil forces, Narakasura waged wars against the gods, seized their celestial possessions, and imprisoned 16,000 women in his palace. His cruelty spread fear across the heavens and the earth alike.

The Appeal to Lord Krishna

Unable to bear Narakasura’s atrocities, Indra, the king of the gods, approached Lord Krishna and pleaded for help. Krishna, understanding the cosmic balance that needed restoration, decided to end Narakasura’s reign of terror.

Accompanied by his consort Satyabhama, who was an incarnation of Bhudevi herself, Krishna set out on his celestial mount, Garuda, toward Pragjyotishapura.

The Battle

The city was protected by mighty fortresses, impenetrable defenses, and powerful magical illusions. Krishna destroyed these fortifications with his divine weapons and pierced through Narakasura’s army. A fierce battle ensued.

When Krishna was momentarily struck by an arrow and appeared to faint, Satyabhama, enraged, took up arms and fought valiantly. It is said that Satyabhama ultimately killed Narakasura, fulfilling the prophecy that he would die at the hands of his mother (since she was Bhudevi reborn).

As Narakasura lay dying, he realized his mistakes and prayed to Krishna for forgiveness. Krishna blessed him and granted his last wish — that his death would be celebrated as a festival of joy and light, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Aftermath and Significance

After Narakasura’s death, Krishna liberated the imprisoned women and restored the stolen treasures, including the magnificent earrings of Aditi, the mother of the gods. The people rejoiced and lit lamps to celebrate the end of darkness and tyranny.

This day became known as Naraka Chaturdashi — the day before Diwali — when people light lamps, clean their homes, and take ritual oil baths at dawn, symbolizing purification and renewal.