Narak Chaturdashi, popularly called Choti Diwali, marks the second day of the five-day Deepotsav celebrations. Falling just before the grand diwali festivities, this day is dedicated to spiritual cleansing, honouring ancestors, and inviting prosperity into homes. Here’s all you need to know.


1. When is Narak Chaturdashi 2025?

  • Date: Sunday, 19 october 2025
  • Tithi Begins: 1:51 PM on 19 october 2025
  • Tithi Ends: 3:44 PM on 20 october 2025
  • Since the puja is performed at night, celebrations will take place on the evening of 19 October.


2. Mythological Significance

  • According to legends, Lord krishna killed the demon Narakasura on this day, symbolising victory over evil.
  • In some regions, it is believed that Lord Hanuman was born at midnight on Narak Chaturdashi, making it a day of devotion to Bajrangbali.
  • The festival also signifies spiritual purification, freeing oneself from sins and negativity.


3. Puja Vidhi – How to Perform Choti diwali Rituals

  • Light Diyas: Face them southwards to honour Lord Yama, the god of Death, and seek protection.
  • Offerings: Present sesame seeds, jaggery, oil, and sweets to ancestors and Yama Dev.
  • Charity: Donate lamps, food grains, clothes, or sweets to the needy.
  • Broom Worship: Symbolises cleansing poverty and welcoming prosperity.
  • Night Lighting: Diyas are lit in every corner of the home before bedtime to dispel darkness and negativity.


4. Regional Traditions Across India

  • North India: Observed as Hanuman Jayanti with offerings of rice, jaggery, sesame, and coconuts.
  • West Bengal: Celebrated as Bhoot Chaturdashi, where 14 lamps are lit to guide ancestral spirits descending to Earth.
  • Tamil Nadu: Known for Nombu fasting and worship of Goddess lakshmi for wealth and good fortune.
  • Western India: Diyas are placed at entrances, symbolising liberation from worldly suffering.
  • Rural Regions: Also celebrated as a harvest festival in some states.


5. Spiritual Meaning of the Festival

  • Narak Chaturdashi signifies the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
  • The rituals help purify the soul, express gratitude to ancestors, and prepare devotees for the grand lakshmi Puja on Diwali.

 

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G GOWTHAM

31/08/2025 09:24 PM