Small Diwali/Naraka Chaturdashi Puja Rituals

1. Significance of Small Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi) : Small Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is observed on the 14th day of the waning moon in Kartik. This day marks the preparations for the grand festival of Diwali. We seek health, prosperity, and happiness through rituals and special practices.

2. Puja Rituals On Small Diwali, lighting four-wick lamps holds special importance. The following mantra should be recited during the puja:

“Dattto Deepashchaturdashyam Naraka Preetaye Maya,

Chaturvarti Sama Yuktah Sarvapapay Nootaye.”

After reciting this mantra, perform a lamp offering (deepdaan).

3. Secrets of Small Diwali :

• Rudra Yogini Tantra: The importance of Small Diwali is discussed in texts like Rudra Yogini

Tantra, Bhavishya Purana, and Markandeya Purana.

• Hanuman Jayanti: Small Diwali also celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman at midnight. Recite the mantra:

“Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Gusai,

Kripa Karo Gurudev Ki Naai.”

Repeat this mantra five times and light an oil lamp.

• Emergence of Jyotirlinga: On this day, the 14th of the waning moon, Lord Shiva is believed to manifest in the form of a Jyotirlinga, symbolizing the formless and inexplicable element.

Mahalakshmi’s Elder Sister: On this day, Mahalakshmi's elder sister, Jyeshtha, is said to have emerged. She is regarded as the goddess of poverty and suffering.

4. Names of the Eight Poveries (Ashtadaridrya) The eight forms of poverty include:

• Poverty, suffering, short lifespan, illness, lack of prosperity, lack of offspring and family growth, scarcity of wealth,

• Lack of victory and success.

  These conditions represent the absence of the eight forms of wealth:

  1. Gaurav (Honor and Prestige).

  2. Dhan (Wealth and Prosperity).

  3. Gyaan (Knowledge and Wisdom).

  4. Moksha (Spiritual Liberation).

  5. Bhog (Material Comfort).

  6. Iccha (Fulfillment of Desires).

  7. Yash (Fame and Recognition).

  8. Shakti (Power and Strength).

  The root causes of these eight forms of poverty are said to be three: knowledge, discernment, and effort.

5. Puja Methodology :

• Rudrabhishek: On the night of Small Diwali, performing Rudrabhishek on the Shivling, along with worship of Hanuman and Ma Kali, can help eliminate the eight forms of poverty.

• Rup Chaturdashi: This day emphasizes the importance of an oil bath. Wake up early and apply herbal oil for a body massage.

Bhavishya Purana states:t;On the 14th day of the waning moon in Kartik, one must definitely take a

bath, especially for those fearful of hell.

6. Benefits of Oil Massage :

1. Balances the Vata dosha.

2. Promotes internal and external health and beauty.

7. Other Practices :

1. After the oil massage, apply a facial cleanup and let it dry.

2. Use neem twigs for brushing your teeth, then toss Apamarg (a medicinal herb) over your head seven times and take a bath.

By performing the rituals mentioned on Small Diwali, one can dispel fears of illness, sorrow, anxiety, and poverty.

Conclusion The festival of Small Diwali/Naraka Chaturdashi holds not only religious significance but also aims for individual and societal prosperity. The rituals and practices conducted on this day enhance happiness, wealth, and overall well-being in life.

“Om Shri Hanumate Namah,

Om Mahalakshmyai Namah,

Om Shivaya Namah.”

May this festival bring happiness and prosperity to your life.