What is Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali
Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, Kali Chaudas, or Roop Chaudas, is one of the most meaningful days in the Diwali festival.
Observed a day before Lakshmi Puja, it represents the victory of light over darkness and purification of body, mind, and surroundings.
This festival marks the legendary destruction of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna and Satyabhama.
While the main Diwali day celebrates prosperity and wealth, Choti Diwali is about cleansing negativity and preparing the soul to welcome divine light. It is also associated with inner reflection and the elimination of evil tendencies.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2025 Date and Muhurat
Why some calendars show 19 October and others 20 October 2025
There has been confusion about whether Naraka Chaturdashi in 2025 will fall on October 19 or October 20. The difference arises due to variations in tithi timing and regional calendar systems.
- The tithi (lunar day) spans two dates
The Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha begins at 1:51 PM on 19 October 2025 and ends at 3:44 PM on 20 October 2025.
Since Hindu festivals are observed based on the lunar calendar, the tithi overlaps two solar days.
Some calendars list 19 October because that’s when the tithi begins, while others list 20 October because the main ritual time (Abhyanga Snan before sunrise) falls on that day. - Regional calendar differences
India follows two major lunar systems:- Amanta (month ends at new moon) — used mostly in South India.
- Purnimanta (month ends at full moon) — used mostly in North India.
In Amanta regions, Naraka Chaturdashi is generally marked on 20 October, whereas some Purnimanta-based almanacs mention 19 October.
- Ritual timing clarity
According to Drik Panchang and other authoritative sources, the Chaturdashi tithi is active at sunrise on 20 October 2025.
Therefore, the sacred oil bath (Abhyanga Snan) should be performed that morning.
This makes 20 October the most widely accepted date for celebrating Naraka Chaturdashi in 2025. - Recommended timings for 2025
- Tithi Begins: 19 October 2025, 1:51 PM
- Tithi Ends: 20 October 2025, 3:44 PM
- Abhyanga Snan Muhurat: 05:13 AM – 06:25 AM on 20 October 2025
Most regions in India, therefore, will observe Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) on Monday, 20 October 2025, even though the tithi begins the previous afternoon.
The Legend of Naraka Chaturdashi – Story of Lord Krishna and Narakasura
According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura was a powerful demon who terrorized the world and imprisoned 16,000 women. His arrogance grew unchecked until Lord Krishna, along with his consort Satyabhama, defeated and killed him at dawn on the Chaturdashi tithi.
Before dying, Narakasura requested that his death be remembered with lights, symbolizing the end of darkness and tyranny.
To this day, devotees light diyas and burst small fireworks on Choti Diwali to celebrate the victory of truth and righteousness.
In Gujarat and Bengal, the day is also associated with the worship of Goddess Kali, who destroys evil and liberates souls from fear and ignorance.
Spiritual Significance of Naraka Chaturdashi
The significance of Naraka Chaturdashi extends beyond mythology. It carries a deep spiritual message about destroying the inner darkness that clouds judgment and compassion.
It is a reminder to cleanse oneself of negative qualities such as ego, anger, and greed before welcoming the prosperity and purity of Diwali.
The rituals symbolize both physical and spiritual purification, with a focus on light, renewal, and divine protection.
For this reason, the day is also called Roop Chaudas, when people purify and beautify themselves, aligning their outer appearance with inner clarity.
How to Perform Abhyanga Snan on Naraka Chaturdashi 2025
The Abhyanga Snan, or sacred oil bath, is the central ritual of Choti Diwali. It is believed to protect the devotee from negative karma and remove the effects of evil influences.
Steps for the ritual:
- Wake up before sunrise, ideally during the Abhyanga Snan muhurat (05:13 AM – 06:25 AM).
- Apply sesame oil mixed with turmeric and sandalwood paste all over the body.
- Offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Yama for protection and absolution of past sins.
- Take a warm bath and wear fresh, clean clothes.
- Light diyas and perform a short puja at home.
In Maharashtra and Karnataka, family members perform aarti for each other after the bath to bless one another with health and prosperity.
Rituals and How to Celebrate Choti Diwali 2025
Choti Diwali celebrations differ slightly across India, but the spirit remains the same: purification, illumination, and devotion.
Main rituals include:
- Deepdan (lighting lamps): Diyas are placed throughout the home to dispel darkness.
- Yamadeep Daan: In the evening, a diya facing south is offered to Lord Yama for protection from premature death.
- Kali Chaudas Puja: Devotees worship Goddess Kali to drive away negative forces.
- Roop Chaudas beauty rituals: Natural ubtan, sandalwood, and rose water are used for cleansing and radiance.
- Faral and sweets: Traditional snacks like chakli, chivda, karanji, laddoos, and anarasa are prepared and shared.
- Eco-friendly fireworks: Families celebrate Krishna’s victory with simple and sustainable fireworks.
Regional Variations Across India
- South India (Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka): Naraka Chaturdashi is celebrated as the main Diwali day. People rise early, take oil baths, and visit temples.
- Maharashtra and Goa: The focus is on Abhyanga Snan and family aarti, followed by sharing faral.
- North India: Known as Choti Diwali, it serves as a calm prelude to the grand Lakshmi Puja.
- Gujarat: Observed as Kali Chaudas with emphasis on warding off evil energies.
- West Bengal and Odisha: Coincides with Kali Puja, where Goddess Kali is worshipped through the night.
Traditional Choti Diwali Foods and Faral Recipes
Festive food is an integral part of Naraka Chaturdashi celebrations. Families prepare a variety of snacks and sweets to distribute among relatives and neighbors.
Common dishes include:
- Chivda – a spicy mixture of flattened rice and nuts
- Chakli or Murukku – crunchy spirals made of rice flour
- Karanji or Gujiya – sweet coconut and dry fruit dumplings
- Anarasa – fermented rice-jaggery sweet
- Besan Laddoo, Shankarpali, and Barfi – traditional Diwali favorites
These delicacies symbolize abundance, joy, and the spirit of sharing.
Eco-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Naraka Chaturdashi
Modern celebrations are increasingly mindful of the environment. You can celebrate Choti Diwali in an eco-conscious way by:
- Using handmade clay diyas instead of electric lights or plastic lamps.
- Choosing natural ubtan for purification instead of chemical-based scrubs.
- Avoiding loud crackers and opting for quiet, eco-friendly alternatives.
- Buying sweets and decorations from local artisans and small businesses.
- Sharing food or gifts with underprivileged families to spread true light.
Difference Between Choti Diwali and Main Diwali
| Aspect | Choti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi) | Main Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 14th day of Krishna Paksha (Ashwin) | 15th day of Krishna Paksha (Amavasya) |
| Deity Worshipped | Lord Krishna, Goddess Kali, or Yama | Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha |
| Theme | Cleansing, protection, and triumph over evil | Prosperity, wealth, and new beginnings |
| Time of Celebration | Early morning rituals | Evening prayers and Lakshmi Puja |
| Regional Importance | Main Diwali day in South India | Primary celebration in North India |
The Deeper Message of Naraka Chaturdashi 2025
Naraka Chaturdashi is more than a prelude to Diwali; it is a spiritual turning point.
As the sun rises on October 20, 2025, it represents the end of darkness and the awakening of light within.
This festival reminds us that before we invite prosperity and happiness, we must overcome our inner demons — pride, anger, and ignorance.
Taking the sacred oil bath, lighting lamps, or sharing sweets — each act symbolizes the removal of darkness and renewal of hope.
Celebrate this Choti Diwali with clarity, compassion, and gratitude, and let its light prepare your soul for the abundance of Diwali.
