Did You Know Some Families Light A Diya For Yamraj Before Diwali? Here’s The Reason Why!

As the people in Southern India celebrate Diwali on Naraka Chaturdashi, which is also famously known as Choti Diwali in Northern India, there’s a simple yet unbreakable tradition my family follows. It’s nothing fancy, but it includes lighting of a solitary diya, for Yamraj, the Hindu God of Death and Justice. While the ritual of lighting this diya may differ for families, there’s a deep significance behind.

Taking Out Yam Ka Diya On Naraka Chaturdashi

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of this simplistic ritual, it’s important to stress the fact that different families have their own beliefs. And there are some who even light this diya on Dhanteras. Coming back to the ritual that my family follows, we light up an old earthen diya that is specifically filled with mustard oil. However, if one doesn’t have an old diya at home, they can make one from wheat and light it up. But the next crucial thing to keep in mind is the timing! We strictly light up this solitary diya when one pahar (this is roughly four hours) has passed after sunset. Additionally, this diya should always be in the south, as it is believed to be the direction of Yamraj.

The Significance Of Lighting Up This Diya

While many light it up in hopes of better health, there are many who believe that lighting this diya every year prevents untimely death. In some households, the diya is taken around the house, while in others it’s placed over a bed of rice and some other offerings. The rituals differ from family to family, but the sentiment is the same – seeking blessings from the God of Death for a healthier life. Did you know some people also believe that lighting this diya protects one’s family from the evil eye?

Also Read: This 12th Century Temple In Karnataka Opens Only Once A Year During Diwali, And It Has A Lamp That Burns Forever

So, even though the way we perform this ritual may be different from yours, it’s worth mentioning that the sentiment remains the same. And if your family doesn’t light up a diya, you can consult your family priest to know about the correct way to do so, if you are also interested in this.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to share this piece with someone dear, after all, it’s always refreshing to read about different cultures and rituals. After all, it’s mere tumhara, hum sab ke liye happy Diwali!

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