Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Kali Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali, or Roop Chaudas, is celebrated on Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha of Kartik month according to the Hindu calendar. It is the second day of the five-day festival of Diwali, and has special significance as it marks the slaying of Narakasura and the victory of good over evil.
Naraka Chaturdashi Story:
According to ancient Hindu legend, an evil demon named Narakasura terrorized the earth. He defeated many gods and imprisoned their queens. When his evils increased, the gods sought help from Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu in the form of Lord Krishna killed Narakasura and freed the people from his atrocities. After the death of Narakasura, Lord Krishna freed the queens and sent them to their home respectfully. This victory symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and on this occasion the festival of Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated.
Importance of Narak Chaturdashi
Self-purification and destruction of evil: This day is considered to symbolize getting rid of evil, laziness and negativity. It is the time for the end of evils from a person's life and self-purification. Importance of bathing and beauty: There is a tradition of bathing before sunrise on the day of Narak Chaturdashi, which is called 'Abhyanga bath'. During this bath, applying ubtan on the body and bathing purifies the body and soul. It is believed that by doing this, a person is freed from the sufferings of hell and attains happiness and prosperity. Worship of beauty:This day is also called Roop Chaudas because people pay special attention to their beauty on this day. It is also considered a day of worship of the god of beauty and form.
Naraka Chaturdashi Puja Vidhi
Abhyang Snan:Bathing with sesame oil before sunrise is the main tradition of this day. This bath is called Abhyang Snan. Bathing after applying Ubtan on the body is a symbol of physical and mental purification. Lighting lamps:Lighting lamps in the house destroys negative energy. It is believed that lighting a lamp for Yamraj on this day liberates one from the fear of hell. Hanuman Puja:Worshiping Hanuman ji on the day of Narak Chaturdashi is also considered auspicious. Hanuman ji is worshipped by offering vermilion and oil. Bhog and Prasad:On this day, Prasad is offered to Lord Krishna and Hanuman ji, which mainly consists of sweets and fruits. Then this Prasad is distributed among all the members of the house. Kali Puja: Narak Chaturdashi is also called Kali Chaudas in some places, where Kali Mata is worshipped. Goddess Kali is considered to be the power that destroys evil, and she is worshipped on this day.
Beliefs associated with Narak Chaturdashi
Taking Abhyanga bath before sunrise on this day brings happiness, prosperity and health in life. Lighting a lamp for Yamraj frees one from the fear of hell and attains salvation after death. Worshiping Hanuman ji on this day brings victory over enemies and relief from troubles.
Special traditions associated with Narak Chaturdashi
On this day, bathing before sunrise is considered extremely important. This bath not only symbolizes physical purification, but also holds significance for spiritual purification. Cleaning the house, lighting a lamp and worshiping with family members is considered a sign of prosperity and happiness. Narak Chaturdashi is not only a festival of physical and mental purification, but it also inspires a person to move forward in life with new enthusiasm and new energy.
Upcoming Narak Chaturdashi dates
- 20 October 2025, Monday
