Tag: spritual

The five-day celebration — Narak Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Duj — is not merely ritual but symbolises a journey of purification of the self, unity among people and victory of the inner spirit.
In this article I do not claim to deliver the final or definitive shāstric (scriptural) interpretation — I speak from limited understanding, from a simple heart and mind. The Vedic tradition is vast like an ocean, and perhaps in one lifetime, analysing it fully is beyond most of us. Read this with reason, freely, and if you find errors or omissions, I accept them humbly.

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1. Narak Chaturdashi: Cleansing & Light

Often called “Chhoti Diwali,” Narak Chaturdashi is observed on the 14th day of Krishna Paksha in Kartik (or Ashvin) month.  It commemorates the triumph of righteousness over the demon Narakasura — and more importantly symbolises the purification of the body and mind before new light enters.  This day invites us to let go of ignorance, ego and negativity, and prepare for the coming prosperity of the heart and home.

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2. Lakshmi Puja: Honour & Prosperity

On the main day, Lakshmi Puja invokes the goddess of wealth and well-being — not only material but spiritual prosperity. The hymn says,

> “यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवता…” — “Where women are honoured, the gods dwell there.”
This reminds us that respect for women and nurturing of feminine energy in society truly lead to abundance.
Moreover, the verse
“धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः” — “Dharma protects those who protect it” —
serves as a guiding principle: the light of Diwali is the light of dharma-righteousness.
Through offering to Lakshmi we symbolise unity, purity and conscious flourishing.

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3. Govardhan Puja: Gratitude to Nature and the Divine

This day commemorates the lifting of the egg-hill Govardhan by Krishna to protect villagers from torrential rains — a symbolic act of trust in nature and divine protection. It calls us to recognise inter-dependence — humans, nature, divine energy — and to align our lives in harmony, humility and reverence.

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4. Bhai Duj: Bond of Siblinghood and Social Unity

On Bhai Duj siblings reaffirm ties of love and responsibility. Beyond the ritual, it stands for social harmony, mutual support and collective joy. In the larger sense, it invites us to see all human beings as “brothers and sisters” in one family under the divine light.

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5. The Deeper Spiritual Message

Taken together, these days map a spiritual journey:

Purification of self (Narak Chaturdashi)

Honour and prosperity (Lakshmi Puja)

Gratitude and unity with nature (Govardhan Puja)

Social bonding and human community (Bhai Duj)

It affirms that festivals aren’t just external rituals — they are frameworks for inner transformation, ethical living and collective upliftment.

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6. A Humble Admission

I recognise my knowledge is limited — the scriptures are far deeper than my understanding. If you find faults, inaccuracies or broader truths beyond what I address, I accept and welcome your perspective. This is not definitive scripture commentary — just a humble reflection from one among many.

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May the light of this festival not only brighten homes, but awaken hearts.
 Jaya Maa. 