Narak Chaturdashi 2026: Why Is Choti Diwali Celebrated? Know the Puja Vidhi, Abhyanga Snan, Yama Deepdaan and Mythological Story

Diwali is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India. It is a five-day festival filled with lights, happiness, devotion and traditional rituals. The day before the main Diwali celebration is known as Choti Diwali or Narak Chaturdashi.

This festival commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.

On this auspicious occasion, devotees follow traditions such as Abhyanga Snan, lighting diyas, performing Yama Deepdaan and offering prayers to Lord Krishna.

Let us explore the date, religious significance, puja rituals and mythological story of Narak Chaturdashi 2026.

1. When Is Narak Chaturdashi 2026?

In 2026, the observances associated with Choti Diwali and Narak Chaturdashi fall across 7 and 8 November.

• Main Narak Chaturdashi: Sunday, 8 November 2026

• Choti Diwali and Yama Deepdaan: Saturday evening, 7 November 2026

• Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: 7 November at approximately 10:48 AM

• Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: 8 November at approximately 11:28 AM

For Ujjain, the listed Abhyanga Snan timing on 8 November is approximately 5:39 AM to 6:36 AM. Timings should be confirmed with the local Panchang before performing rituals. 

2. Religious Significance of Narak Chaturdashi

Narak Chaturdashi is an important Hindu festival celebrated before Diwali. It is also known as Choti Diwali, Roop Chaudas and Kali Chaudas in different regions.

The festival commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.

According to religious beliefs, the day represents the destruction of evil, purification of life and the beginning of positivity.

Devotees celebrate this occasion by taking an early morning oil bath, lighting traditional lamps and offering prayers.

3. The Mythological Story of Narak Chaturdashi

According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura was a powerful demon who troubled the gods and innocent people through his cruel actions.

He became arrogant because of his powers and captured thousands of women, causing suffering throughout the kingdom.

To end his tyranny, Lord Krishna fought against Narakasura with the help of his wife, Satyabhama.

Lord Krishna eventually defeated and killed the demon, freeing the imprisoned women and restoring peace.

People celebrated this victory by lighting lamps and expressing happiness.

This event is remembered through the celebration of Narak Chaturdashi.

The story teaches an important lesson: no matter how powerful evil becomes, truth and righteousness ultimately prevail.

4. Importance of Abhyanga Snan on Narak Chaturdashi

One of the most important traditions of Narak Chaturdashi is Abhyanga Snan.

Abhyanga Snan refers to a traditional bath taken after applying oil to the body. In many Hindu households, people wake up before sunrise and follow this ritual using oil and herbal ubtan.

According to religious beliefs, this ritual symbolizes physical and spiritual purification.

Common practices include:

• Waking up early in the morning.

• Applying traditional oil to the body.

• Using herbal ubtan before bathing.

• Taking a bath before sunrise.

• Wearing clean clothes after the bath.

• Offering prayers to God.

This tradition is especially popular in different parts of India.

5. Narak Chaturdashi Puja Vidhi

Devotees perform simple religious rituals on this day to seek happiness, peace and protection.

Steps to Perform the Puja:

1. Wake up early and take a bath.

2. Clean the house and prayer area.

3. Place an idol or picture of Lord Krishna in the puja area.

4. Light a traditional diya.

5. Offer flowers, fruits and sweets to the deity.

6. Chant prayers and mantras dedicated to Lord Krishna.

7. Pray for the happiness and well-being of your family.

8. In the evening, light diyas around the house and near the main entrance.

Devotees can follow the rituals according to their family traditions.

6. Significance of Yama Deepdaan

Yama Deepdaan is another important tradition associated with Narak Chaturdashi.

During this ritual, devotees light an oil lamp in honour of Lord Yama, the Hindu deity associated with death and justice.

According to traditional beliefs, the lamp is placed outside the house, generally facing the southern direction.

This ritual is performed to seek protection from untimely death and pray for the long life and well-being of family members.

Yama Deepdaan represents devotion, protection and prayers for a peaceful life.

7. What Should You Do on Choti Diwali?

Choti Diwali is considered an auspicious occasion to welcome positivity and happiness.

Some traditional practices include:

• Cleaning and decorating the house.

• Taking an early morning Abhyanga Snan.

• Worshipping Lord Krishna.

• Lighting diyas at the entrance.

• Helping poor and needy people.

• Spending quality time with family.

• Maintaining a peaceful and positive atmosphere at home.

These traditions help make the celebration meaningful and spiritually fulfilling.

8. Difference Between Choti Diwali and Main Diwali

Many people wonder about the difference between Choti Diwali and the main Diwali festival.

Choti Diwali is associated with Narak Chaturdashi and the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura.

Main Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Amavasya and is especially associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.

While Choti Diwali focuses on purification, victory over evil and Yama Deepdaan, the main Diwali celebration emphasizes prosperity, wealth and happiness.

Both festivals carry the message of light overcoming darkness.

Conclusion

Narak Chaturdashi, popularly known as Choti Diwali, is an important Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.

The story of Lord Krishna and Narakasura reminds us that truth, courage and righteousness always triumph over negativity.

Through traditions such as Abhyanga Snan, Yama Deepdaan and lighting diyas, devotees welcome positivity, happiness and prosperity into their homes.

May this Choti Diwali bring peace, good health, happiness and success to everyone.

Wishing you and your family a very Happy Choti Diwali 2026!