Yam Deep Daan

Image of Yamraj from the public domain

Yam Deep Daan (Narak Chaturdashi) occurs on Chaturdashi tithi of Kartik maas Krishna paksh, the day before Diwali. Hanuman Jayanti, celebrating the birth of Hanuman Ji, also falls on this day. This day is also commonly known as “Chhoti Diwali”.

As the name suggests, this day is in honour of Lord Yamraj, for auspiciousness and prosperity in the upcoming year. Devotees are encouraged to rise before dawn and bathe before the sunrise, followed by offering Ganga Jal (tarpan) three times to Lord Yamraj to avoid difficulties and hardship in the upcoming year.

In the evening, light a four-cornered diya using sesame oil and light dhoop at your doorstep. Facing the south, pray to Lord Yamraj for yourself and your family.

The lit diya and dhoop should then be taken out of the front door of the house and placed in a secluded area towards the south within the yard. Offerings of flowers should also be given.

Source: Skanda Purana