The festival of Diwali commences with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhai Dooj. Choti Diwali, celebrated a day before the main Diwali, is. Also known as Narak Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, and Roop Chaudas. This year, it falls on October 19, 2025, Sunday, while this day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Hanuman and Yamraj, the god of death, and also marks Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.
Choti Diwali 2025 Muhurat
According to the Hindu calendar, Kartik month's Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi Tithi, on which Choti Diwali or Narak Chaturdashi is observed, begins on October 19 at 1:53 PM and concludes on October 20 at 3:46 PM. As Choti Diwali puja is primarily performed at night, observing it on October 19 will be auspicious, while the auspicious Puja Muhurat begins at 5:47 PM on October 19. Abhyang Snan timings are from 5:12 AM to 6:25 AM on October 19. The puja can be performed after sunset, typically from 6 PM to 9 PM. On this day, Lord Krishna, Goddess Lakshmi, Yamraj, and Lord Hanuman are worshipped.
Narak Chaturdashi Puja Rituals
Perform 'Abhyang Snan' (ritual bath with sesame oil massage) before sunrise. After bathing, clean the house and temple, and sprinkle Ganga Jal. Offer Arghya to the Sun God. Install and worship Lord Ganesha, Goddess Durga, Shiva, Vishnu, Surya Dev, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Krishna at the puja spot. Offer Besan and Boondi laddus as bhog. In the evening, light an oil lamp (deepak) for Yamraj outside the main entrance, facing south. Place a four-faced lamp made of flour at the main doorway, praying to Yamraj for protection from untimely death and hell. A total of 14 lamps are traditionally lit on this day.
Number of Diyas to Light
It's customary to light 14 lamps on Choti Diwali, symbolizing the Chaturdashi Tithi. One lamp is dedicated to Yamraj, one to Maa Kali, and one to Lord Krishna. The remaining lamps are auspiciously placed at various locations around the house, such as the main entrance, kitchen, near the Tulsi plant, and on the rooftop. Lighting lamps on this day is believed to free individuals from. The sufferings of hell and bring the blessings of Lord Krishna.
