Narak Chaturdashi: Why It Is Called Chhoti Diwali – Story, Rituals & Significance

_Shokesh _
Oct 13
2 min read

Narak Chaturdashi, popularly known as Chhoti Diwali, is the second day of the five-day Diwali festival. It is celebrated on the Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi of Kartik month and holds deep spiritual and mythological significance. This sacred day marks the victory of good over evil, darkness over light, and purification before Diwali.

Why Is Narak Chaturdashi Called Chhoti Diwali?

Narak Chaturdashi is called Chhoti (small) Diwali because:

It is celebrated one day before the big festival of Diwali.

The rituals like lighting diyas, cleaning homes, and prayers begin on this day.

It sets the spiritual tone for Diwali by destroying negative energies.

In many regions, families start Diwali celebrations from this day.

Mythological Story of Narak Chaturdashi – The Legend of Narakasura

According to Hindu scriptures, the demon king Narakasura ruled Pragjyotishpur (Assam). He became arrogant and held 16,000 women captive. Lord Krishna, along with Goddess Satyabhama, destroyed Narakasura on this day and freed humanity from fear. Before dying, Narakasura requested that his death be celebrated with lights and joy—and that is why we celebrate Narak Chaturdashi.

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Spiritual Significance

Narak Chaturdashi symbolizes: ✅ Removal of darkness (ignorance)

✅ Victory of truth and dharma

✅ Protection from evil forces

✅ Cleansing of body and soul

It is believed that performing Narak Nivaran rituals on this day removes sins and fear of untimely death (Yamadoṣa).

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Narak Chaturdashi Puja Vidhi (How to Perform Puja)

Morning Ritual – Abhyang Snan

Wake up during Brahma Muhurat.

Apply Ubtan (chandan + haldi + multani mitti).

Use til oil for Abhyang Snan to purify body and soul.

Wear clean clothes and decorate your home.

Evening Lakshmi & Yam Deep Daan

Light 13 diyas—this protects from negative energies.

Perform Yam Deepdaan by placing a diya outside the home for Lord Yama.

Offer flowers, roli, rice, dhoop, and sweets.

Chant the mantra:

“ॐ यमाय नमः ।”

Kali/Hanuman Puja

In Maharashtra & Gujarat – Kali Puja

In North India – Hanuman Puja for strength & protection

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Why Yam Deepdaan Is Important?

On Narak Chaturdashi evening, people light a deepak for Lord Yamraj seeking protection for their family. This deepak removes obstacles and grants long life.

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