Bali Pratipada is observed after Deepavali in Karnataka and Maharashtra . Balipratipada 2024 date is November 2. Balipratipada celebrates the reign of Asura King Balindra, popularly known as Mahabali, who was killed by Vamana, an incarnation of Vishnu. Legend has it that due to a boon given by Lord Vishnu, King Balindra gets an opportunity to rule to entire universe for one day and this day is Bali Pratipada.
Bali . And Balindra got the coveted title of Chakravarthi – emperor. Bali decided to conduct Ashvamedha Yajna, to show his strength.
Story of Balipratipada
Legend has it that King Bali attained immense popularity due to his good governance. He attained near invincibility with the help of his Guru Shukracharya. As a result, Indra soon lost heaven to
Indra sought the help of Lord Vishnu to regain his lost heaven.
Lord Vishnu attended the Yajna, as Vamana, a dwarf. Vamana asked for three steps of land and it was immediately granted by King Bali. Soon, the short Vamana grew in size – so huge that it was impossible to describe in words.
With his first step, Vamana covered all of Earth. His second step covered all of the Sky. There was no place for the third step and King Bali offered his head. Vamana sent Bali to Patala Loka or Underworld.
King Bali was a popular and great ruler; therefore he was made the emperor of underworld by Vamana. He was also given the boon that he will be allowed to rule the entire universe for one day, which is the Balipratipada day.
How is Balipratipada Observed?
On Bali Pratipada day, people remember King Bali and pray for the return of prosperity that existed during his rule. Exchanging gifts on this day is a major highlight.Diwali Padwa is observed on the day.
People visit their relatives and friends on the day.