For all the posts in this Holidays & Observances series, go here.
Prologue: I have been meaning to write a series about Holidays and Observances that we (my family and friends) follow in both India (my birth country) and USA (my adopted country). This series is dedicated to those. On a side note, perhaps I might witness some of the celebrations from other countries as well that may get their way into this series. š
The second day of Diwali is called as Choti Diwali in most states of India, but as Naraka Chathurdasi in Telugu Indian language speaking states of India. It was on Nov 11th this year (2023). This day signifies the liberation of souls from Narakam (= Hell), and also marks the destruction of the asura Narakasura by God Krishna. Several perform Hanuman Pooja on this day who is the deity of strength, power, and protection.
