Naraka Chaturdashi 2025 – Date, Rituals, Regional Traditions & Spiritual Significance

Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chotti Diwali, Roop Chaudas, Kali Chaudas, and Bhoot Chaturdashi, is a vibrant Hindu festival observed on the fourteenth day (Chaturdashi) of Krishna Paksha in Kartik month. In South India, it aligns with the Ashwin month. It marks the second day of the five-day Diwali celebrations, falling on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Mythological Significance

This day celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the destruction of evil and the triumph of righteousness. In some regions, it is also observed as Hanuman Jayanti, honoring the birth of Lord Hanuman. In West Bengal, it coincides with the birthday of Goddess Kali, celebrated as Kali Chaudas.

Regional Celebrations

• North India:
  Grand celebrations with lights, sweets, and family gatherings mark Chotti Diwali.
• Maharashtra:
  The day begins with Abhyang Snan—a sacred pre-dawn bath using herbal Ubatan, followed by wearing new clothes and lighting lamps.
• Goa:
  Unique tradition of burning giant Narakasura effigies, paraded through streets and set ablaze in the evening.
• West Bengal:
  Celebrated as Kali Chaudas with magnificent pandals, special pujas, and offerings to Goddess Kali.
• Western India (Urban & Rural):
  Families prepare delicacies from freshly harvested hand-pounded rice, honoring agrarian traditions.

Rituals & Things to Do

• Abhyang Snan:
  Wake before sunrise, apply Ubatan, and take a holy bath to cleanse sins and ward off evil.
• New Clothes & Kajal:
  Wearing fresh attire and applying kajal is believed to protect from Kali Nazar (evil eye).
• Lighting Diyas:
  Homes are illuminated with lamps to welcome prosperity and dispel darkness.
• Lakshmi Puja:
  Families worship Goddess Lakshmi, offering sweets, flowers, and prayers for wealth and well-being.
• Crackers & Merriment:
  Children burst crackers post-puja, adding joy and festivity to the evening.
• Fasting & Kuber Worship:
  Devotees observe fasts, worship Lakshmi and Kuber, and break the fast after completing rituals.
• Kul Devi Worship & Pitru Offerings:
  Families honor their ancestral deities and offer food to forefathers for blessings and protection.
• Deep Daan:
  Donating earthen lamps is a sacred act symbolizing the removal of ignorance and darkness.

Essence of the Festival

Naraka Chaturdashi is a day to eradicate wickedness, laziness, and ignorance, and to invite light, renewal, and divine grace into one’s life. It blends spiritual cleansing with joyful celebration, making it one of the most cherished days of the Diwali season.