Kali Chaudas, also known as Bhut Chaturdashi, is a significant festival mainly observed in the western states of India, particularly in Gujarat. Celebrated during the five-day Diwali festival, Kali Chaudas is observed to ward off negative energies and protect oneself and the family from evil forces. This day holds a special place as it is traditionally observed during the Maha Nishita Kaal (midnight), when the fourteenth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) occurs.
Significance of Kali Chaudas
The festival of Kali Chaudas is celebrated to respect and eliminate any evil influences and energies that may cause harm to humans. It is called Bhut Chaturdashi (Ghost Chaturdashi) because it is believed that, on this day, demonic energies are most active. Special rituals are performed to seek the protection of Goddess Kali, who is revered for her power to remove negativity and bring peace and prosperity to households.
When is Kali Chaudas Celebrated?
Kali Chaudas is celebrated on the day before Diwali when the fourteenth lunar day (Chaturdashi Tithi) occurs at midnight, according to the traditional Hindu Panchang (almanac). This day is separate from Roop Chaudas and Narak Chaturdashi, which may sometimes fall on different dates.
Rituals of Kali Chaudas
- Bathing and Ubtan: Early morning on Kali Chaudas, it is auspicious to take a ritual bath, applying a paste of sesame oil, turmeric, and gram flour (besan) to the body. This practice is seen as a way to purify and protect oneself from evil forces.
- Havan and Chanting: A sacred fire ritual (havan) is performed, along with the chanting of Goddess Kali’s mantras and other deities, to drive away any negativity in the surrounding environment.
- Lighting of Lamps: A lamp made with mustard oil, known as the “Yama Deep,” is placed in the south direction at the main entrance of the house. This direction is considered to be ruled by Yama, the god of death, and lighting the lamp in his honor wards off evil forces.
- Protection from Evil Spirits: Specific rituals involving ingredients like sesame oil, cloves, and black pepper are carried out to protect against malevolent forces. The family members pray to Goddess Kali, asking for protection.
- Offering of Prasad: Offerings of food items such as black sesame seeds, jaggery, and rice are made to the goddess. These offerings are then distributed as prasad among family members.
Benefits of Celebrating Kali Chaudas
- Protection from Evil Energies: The rituals of Kali Chaudas protect individuals from malevolent forces and energies.
- Spiritual Purification: The traditional bath and ubtan are believed to purify both body and soul.
- Inner Strength and Courage: Worshipping Goddess Kali instills fearlessness and courage, empowering individuals to face life’s challenges.
- Relief from Untimely Death: Lighting the Yama Deep helps protect family members from the fear of untimely death and brings peace to the home.
Additional Important Details
- It is auspicious to bathe young children and elder family members with the special herbal paste and offer them the goddess's prasad for added blessings.
- In rural areas, community gatherings and group havans are organized to collectively ward off evil.
Kali Chaudas reminds us to cleanse ourselves of negative energies and foster positivity in our lives. By celebrating this festival, individuals embrace the path of goodness, and courage overcomes fear. It brings mental peace and the protection of the divine, leading to a balanced and peaceful life.
