Chaturdashi
Also known as: Fourteenth Day, Shivaratri Day, Narak Chaturdashi
Chaturdashi Ki Shubhkamnaye
Significance
Chaturdashi is the 14th lunar day. Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi is Shivaratri, the most auspicious time for Shiva worship. Ashwin Krishna Chaturdashi is Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) celebrating Krishna's victory over demon Narakasura. Shukla Chaturdashi is Anant Chaturdashi when Ganesh Visarjan takes place.
Rituals & Observances
- On Shivaratri - Night vigil for Shiva
- On Narak Chaturdashi - Oil bath before sunrise
- Light lamps to ward off darkness
- Worship Lord Hanuman for protection
- On Anant Chaturdashi - Ganesh Visarjan
- Tie Anant Sutra (sacred thread)
- Perform Abhishekam to Shiva Lingam
- Chant victory mantras for Krishna
Special Variations
- Maha Shivaratri - Grand Shiva celebration
- Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
- Anant Chaturdashi - Ganesh immersion
- Yama Deepam for Lord of Death
Traditional Foods
Do's and Don'ts
Do
- Shiva worship
- Oil bath
- Light lamps
- Ganesh Visarjan
Don't
- Sleep on Shivaratri
- Miss oil bath on Narak Chaturdashi