Mumbai: Diwali is the grandest festival in India, celebrated over five days with immense joy, lights, and devotion. The celebrations begin with Dhanteras and conclude with Bhai Dooj, each day carrying its own spiritual and cultural importance. Families decorate their homes, exchange gifts, and worship deities for prosperity, health, and happiness.
Among these five days, the second day holds special significance. Known as Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is dedicated to both Lord Krishna and Yamraj, the God of Death. People perform rituals to ward off negative energies, light diyas, and prepare their homes for the main Diwali celebrations that follow.
Choti Diwali 2025 Date and Timings
According to the Hindu Panchang, Choti Diwali 2025 will be celebrated on 19 October, Sunday.
- Chaturdashi Tithi begins: 19 October at 1:51 PM
- Chaturdashi Tithi ends: 20 October at 3:44 PM
As per Udaya Tithi, Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali falls on 19 October, while the main Diwali (Badi Diwali) will be observed on 20 October.
Choti Diwali Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
- Sacred bath: Wake up early before sunrise and take a holy bath, considered highly auspicious on this day.
- Clean attire and worship: Wear fresh clothes and worship Yamraj for protection from untimely death.
- Yam Deepak: In the evening, light a four-faced diya (lamp) near the main entrance of the house, facing south. This is known as Yam Deepak. It can be made of flour or clay.
- Deep Daan: Light diyas in every corner of the house and outside to invite positivity and drive away negativity.
- Rangoli: Decorate the entrance with vibrant rangoli to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and spread festive cheer.
Significance of Narak Chaturdashi
Choti Diwali marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. According to legends, Narakasura had imprisoned 16,100 princesses. Lord Krishna defeated him and freed the captives, signifying the triumph of truth and righteousness.
This day is also associated with Yamraj, the God of Death. Lighting diyas in his name is believed to protect devotees from premature death and grant liberation from sins. Symbolically, Choti Diwali represents overcoming darkness and preparing homes and hearts for the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi on the main Diwali day.