Major Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali)
Naraka Chaturdashi (also called Chhoti Diwali, Roop Chaudas, or Narak Chaudas) falls on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik — the day before Diwali. It commemorates Lord Krishna and Satyabhama's victory over the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 women and terrorized the three worlds. After his defeat, the imprisoned women were freed and the gods lit lamps to celebrate. Devotees wake before sunrise, apply oil and ubtan (herbal paste), and bathe — believed to free them from the fear of Naraka (hell). Lamps are lit in the evening and fireworks celebrate the victory of good over evil.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
Victory of Krishna over the demon Narakasura — liberation of the imprisoned souls. The pre-dawn oil bath (Abhyanga Snan) on this day is said to free a person from the fear of Naraka (hell) for the year. It also celebrates beauty, cleanliness, and inner radiance (Roop Chaturdashi).
Rituals & Traditions
Wake before sunrise and apply sesame oil all over the body. Apply ubtan (paste of gram flour, turmeric, and sandalwood). Take ritual bath before sunrise. Wear new clothes. Light 14 diyas in the evening — place one near a water source and one facing south (toward Yama). Light fireworks.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali)?
Naraka Chaturdashi (also called Chhoti Diwali, Roop Chaudas, or Narak Chaudas) falls on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik — the day before Diwali. It commemorates Lord Krishna and Satyabhama's victory over the demon Narakasura, who h...
Q.What is the significance of Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali)?
Victory of Krishna over the demon Narakasura — liberation of the imprisoned souls. The pre-dawn oil bath (Abhyanga Snan) on this day is said to free a person from the fear of Naraka (hell) for the year. It also celebrates beauty, cleanliness, and inner radiance (Roop Chaturdashi).
Q.What are the rituals of Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali)?
Wake before sunrise and apply sesame oil all over the body. Apply ubtan (paste of gram flour, turmeric, and sandalwood). Take ritual bath before sunrise. Wear new clothes. Light 14 diyas in the evening — place one near a water source and one facing south (toward Yama). Light fireworks.
Q.What foods are made during Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali)?
Chakli, Chivda, Ladoo, Karanji, Farsan