While the festival of Diwali illuminates the entirety of India with lights and enjoyment, one day is uniquely special for its rich spiritual significance: Naraka Chaturdashi. Known locally as Chhoti Diwali, it signifies the triumph of good over evil and light over dark. Naraka Chaturdashi will be celebrated on Sunday, October 19 in 2025, the day before Diwali itself.
The Tale of Naraka Chaturdashi
The tale of Naraka Chaturdashi embodies courage, justice, and hope. The demon king Narakasura ruled over Pragjyotishpur (modern-day Assam) according to Hindu myth. Though strong, he was cruel and unjust, causing fear and darkness to descend upon the earth.
The gods decided they could not endure his tyranny any longer, so they prayed to Lord Krishna for help. Hearing their prayers, Krishna went to battle with Narakasura alongside his consort Satyabhama. They fought valiantly for hours and, at dawn, Krishna defeated and killed Narakasura. During this victorious battle, thousands of tortured souls were freed, and peace was restored to heaven and earth.
Ever since, Naraka Chaturdashi has been celebrated as the close of darkness and the proximity of light and goodness.
Reason for calling this day Chhoti Diwali
The day before Diwali is Naraka Chaturdashi, which is a reason it is sometimes called Chhoti Diwali, meaning “Small Diwali.” Even though the fun is more modest, the day’s spirit is just as lively.
Diyas (oil lamps) are lit, and the next day, the world will stand on the cusp of celebrating the triumph of Lord Krishna (over Narakasura) as we clean our homes and decorate. (i.e., this is our last time to clean before basically all of us start a huge party for the next day). The dancing oils flames are often symbolic of “getting rid of ignorance” and making room for light, knowledge and positivity.
Rituals and Traditions
As it is customary, the day starts early with a practice called Abhyanga Snan – a holy oil bath done before sunrise. It is said that this sacred bath removes negativity and sins, bringing purity and health. Family members rub themselves in sesame oil and fragrant herbs, given its expectation of protecting the body and cleansing the mind, before bathong.
After bathing, families light diyas, create colorful rangolis, and decorate their home with flowers and lights. In some families, Lord Krishna and Satyabhama are also worshipped as gratitude for their protection of humanity from evil.
In many parts of the world, participants are seen bursting firecrackers, exchanging sweets, and visiting with friends and family members. The air is filled with joy and laughter, as well as the smell of yummy celebrations!
Regional Names and Celebrations
India celebrates Naraka Chaturdashi, though various customs and names exist for the same festival across the country.
- In South India, Naraka Chaturdashi is among the most significant days of Diwali. It is referred to as Deepavali, where everyone wakes up before dawn, takes an oil bath, and dons fresh clothing.
- In Maharashtra and Goa, it is Kali Chaudas, where devotees pray to Goddess Kali to protect against evil forces.
- In Gujarat, oil lamps are lit and other rituals are observed to ward off negative energies.
- Regardless of the variations, the message is the same – to be free of darkness and experience renewal.
Uncovering the Deeper Meaning of Naraka Chaturdashi
Naraka Chaturdashi goes beyond the lights and rituals – it carries a deep meaning. It teaches us woman may come up to evil, it is always goodness that prevails. Just as the Narakasura was defeated by Lord Krishna, we have the ability to overcome our own inner demons—fear, hate, jealousy and ignorance.
To light a diya or lamp on this auspicious day is not just a tradition, but a reminder to light your own internal lamp of wisdom. The festival is a culmination of positivity and to let go of negativity so we can truly live with kindness, love, and hope.
Health and Purification Rituals
Many of the traditions observed in Naraka Chaturdashi are performed for health and purification. The oil bath specifically performed before the sun rises is believed to have many health benefits. It is thought to relax the body, improve circulation, and help purge toxins, making it both a spiritual and physical act of purification.
On this day, many people also do a big clean of their home to push out negativity and create a feeling of freshness prior to Diwali. A clean and well lit home is deemed to be inviting of good energy and blessings by Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Lighting the Way Forward
As darkness falls, diyas illuminate homes, streets, and temples, creating rows of golden light, a representation of victory, freedom and joy. The laughter of families, the splashing of fireworks, and the scent of sweets and festivities, create a common charm.
Naraka Chaturdashi remains aware that every dark night is followed by light, and every challenge brings strength. It is a festival that represents not just an ancient victory, but also the strength of human beings to navigate tough times and occurrences.
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