Deepavali – The Festival of Lights
Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India. Among the many legends associated with this festival, the story of Lord Krishna and His consort Satyabhama’s victory over the demon Narakasura stands out. This tale is a testament to the triumph of good over evil and highlights the divine partnership between Lord Krishna and Satyabhama.
Let’s delve into this story in detail, exploring the profound devotion and power that make Deepavali a truly unique and spiritual experience.
Narakasura was a powerful demon who ruled the kingdom of Pragjyotisha. Despite his divine lineage, Narakasura turned to evil ways, causing immense suffering to the people and the gods. He captured 16,000 women and imprisoned them in his palace, stole the earrings of Aditi (the mother of the gods), and usurped some of her territories. His reign of terror knew no bounds, and the heavens trembled at his name.
The gods, unable to bear Narakasura’s atrocities, approached Lord Krishna for help. Krishna, ever the protector of dharma (righteousness), decided to end Narakasura’s tyranny. He was accompanied by His wife Satyabhama, who played a crucial role in the battle. According to a prophecy, Narakasura could only be killed by his mother, and Satyabhama, an incarnation of Bhumi Devi, was destined to fulfil this role.
Lord Krishna and Satyabhama set out for Pragjyotisha on Garuda, Lord Krishna’s celestial mount. As they approached the city, they met with fierce resistance from Narakasura’s army. The battle was intense, with Lord Krishna and Satyabhama displaying unparalleled valour and skill. Lord Krishna used His divine weapons to combat the demon forces, while Satyabhama, with her unwavering courage, fought alongside him.
Satyabhama sahayena Krishnena cha mahatmana,
Nihato Narakah papo lokanam hitakamyaya.
(With the assistance of the great soul Lord Krishna, Satyabhama killed the sinful Narakasura for the welfare of the world.)
This sloka from the scriptures highlights the divine partnership between Lord Krishna and Satyabhama, emphasizing their combined efforts in defeating Narakasura. During the battle, Narakasura hurled a powerful weapon at Lord Krishna, causing him to feign unconsciousness. Thinking that Lord Krishna had fallen, Satyabhama was filled with anger and determination. She took up her bow and shot arrows at Narakasura. Her fierce onslaught overwhelmed the demon, and in a final act of valour, she struck him down, fulfilling the prophecy.
Satyabhama tada devi kruddha samprekshya Keshavam,
Uvacha Narakam daityam yudhyasveti punah punah.
(Then the goddess Satyabhama, seeing Lord Krishna, became enraged and repeatedly challenged the demon Narakasura to fight.)
This sloka captures the moment of Satyabhama’s fierce determination and her pivotal role in the battle.
With Narakasura’s death, the sixteen thousand women he had imprisoned were liberated. Lord Krishna and Satyabhama ensured their safe return and restored their dignity. This act of liberation is a significant aspect of the story, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of ‘sanatana dharma.’
The defeat of Narakasura is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, a day before Deepavali. It marks the victory of light over darkness and the liberation of the oppressed. Homes are illuminated with oil lamps, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the ushering in of knowledge and righteousness.
Tamo nashaya dipanam prajvalyante grihantare, Narakasura vadhenaiwa Deepavali prakirtita.
(To dispel darkness, lamps are lit inside homes. With the slaying of Narakasura, Deepavali is celebrated.)
This sloka beautifully encapsulates the essence of Deepavali, highlighting the significance of lighting lamps to dispel darkness and celebrate the victory of good over evil.
The story of Lord Krishna and Satyabhama’s victory over Narakasura is a profound narrative that embodies the essence of Deepavali. It teaches us the values of courage, righteousness, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. As one celebrates Deepavali, lighting lamps and sharing sweets, one is reminded of these timeless lessons and the divine power that guides one towards light and knowledge.
May the divine tales of Lord Krishna and Satyabhama inspire us to lead lives of virtue and devotion, and may the festival of Deepavali bring joy, peace, and prosperity to all!
