Two Mythological Stories Behind Yama Deep Daan on Dhanteras

On the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik, people observe Yama Deep Daan as per ancient tradition. Many light a special lamp in the name of Lord Yamaraj, the God of Death. This sacred practice connects to various beliefs and age-old stories. One significant belief says that lighting this lamp protects the family from untimely death. Let’s explore two well-known mythological stories behind this sacred ritual.

First Mythological Story of Yama Deep

This story involves Yamaraj and his messengers (Yamdoots). Once, Yamaraj asked his messengers if they ever felt compassion while taking souls from the mortal world. One Yamdoot shared a touching incident about a prince named Hem, whose soul they had to take under tragic circumstances. At the time of Hem’s birth, astrologers predicted that he would die four days after marriage. To protect him, the king raised him in a remote cave, hidden from the world. Despite all efforts, destiny unfolded as planned.

One day, while wandering near the Yamuna river, the daughter of King Hans stumbled upon the cave. Hem fell in love with her and married her in a Gandharva-style wedding. As the prophecy stated, he died on the fourth day after the wedding. The Yamdoot said they felt deep sorrow while taking the young prince’s soul. Hearing this, Yamaraj grew thoughtful. The Yamdoot asked if there was any way to avoid premature death. Yamaraj then revealed a solution:“If someone lights a lamp in my name on the evening of Dhanteras, I will protect that person and their family from untimely death.” Since then, people have followed the tradition of Yama Deep Daan to seek protection and blessings.

Second Mythological Story of Yama Deep Daan

In another tale, King Him had a son after many years. Astrologers again predicted that the prince would die on the fourth day after marriage. Time passed, and the prince eventually got married. On the fourth evening, everyone in the palace feared the worst—except the prince’s wife. She remained calm and placed her complete faith in Goddess Lakshmi. That evening, she decorated the entire palace with oil lamps and began singing devotional songs in praise of the goddess. As the Yamdoots approached to take the prince’s soul, they saw the wife in deep devotion and couldn’t bring themselves to enter the palace.

They returned without completing their task.Yamaraj then decided to come himself, disguising as a serpent. When he reached the chamber where the prince and his wife stayed, the glow of the lamps dazzled his eyes. The sound of devotional songs touched his heart.Yamaraj lost track of time while listening. Before he realized it, morning arrived, and the destined time for the prince’s death passed. Yamaraj had to return empty-handed, sparing the prince’s life.Since then, people light Yama Deep on Dhanteras to honor this event and protect their loved ones from untimely death.

When to Perform Yama Deep in 2025

In 2025, Yama Deep Daan will take place on October 18. You should light the lamp after sunset at the southern entrance of your house. On this day, tradition suggests lighting 13 lamps at the main door and 13 inside the house after sunset.In some regions, people light Yama Deep only after all family members return home, finish their dinner, and get ready to sleep.Use an old clay lamp filled with mustard oil and a cotton wick. Light the lamp inside the house, then place it outside in the south direction, near a drain or garbage area. Pour a little water next to the lamp and return home without looking back.

While performing Deep Daan, recite this mantra:

“Mrityuna Paashahastena Kaalena Bhaaryayaa Saha।
Trayodashyaam Deepadaanat Surya-jah Preeyataam Iti॥”

This sacred act ensures peace, protection, and blessings from Yamaraj.