Diwali is not just a festival, it’s an experience, five days of light, laughter, rituals, and cultural traditions that bring families together across India and beyond. Among these five days, Choti Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, holds a unique charm. Falling just a day before the grand festival of lights, this occasion blends mythology, spirituality, and customs in fascinating ways. From lighting lamps to remembering ancestors, Choti Diwali is steeped in symbolic practices that continue to thrive even in modern times.
If you are wondering when Choti Diwali 2025 will be celebrated, what rituals to follow, and the legends behind it, here’s everything you need to know.
When is Choti Diwali 2025?
In 2025, Choti Diwali or Narak Chaturdashi will be celebrated on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
- The Chaturdashi tithi will begin at 1:51 PM on October 19 and end at 3:44 PM on October 20.
- Since the puja is performed during the night hours, Choti Diwali will be observed on October 19, while main Diwali and Lakshmi Puja will be held the following day, October 20.
This timing is significant because Narak Chaturdashi falls on the 14th day of Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon) in the month of Kartik, according to the Hindu calendar.
Rituals and Dos & Don’ts of Narak Chaturdashi
Every Hindu festival comes with its own set of traditions, and Choti Diwali is no different. Families prepare their homes and hearts to welcome positivity while dispelling negative forces.
What to Do on Choti Diwali?
- Light Diyas Facing South: Lighting lamps facing the south direction is considered auspicious, as it symbolises paying respect to Lord Yama, the God of Death, and seeking protection from untimely death.
- Offerings to Yama & Ancestors: People offer sesame seeds, jaggery, oil, and sweets to Yama Dev and their ancestors to ensure peace and blessings.
- Charity & Donations: Giving clothes, food, oil, or sweets to the needy is highly encouraged on this day as it is believed to wash away sins.
- Worship the Broom (Jhadu Puja): Symbolising cleanliness and removal of poverty, many households worship the broom as a reminder to sweep away negativity.
- Light Lamps at Night: After sunset, earthen lamps are placed in every corner of the home to remove darkness and keep away evil spirits.
What to Avoid on Choti Diwali
- Avoid disrespecting elders or ancestors, as this day emphasises remembrance and gratitude.
- Do not leave your home dark; always light at least one diya outside the main entrance.
- Avoid conflicts or harsh words, as Choti Diwali is seen as a day of peace and cleansing.
Mythological Significance of Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali has several legends woven into its fabric, making it one of the most fascinating days of the festive season.
- The Legend of Narakasura: According to mythology, Lord Krishna defeated the demon king Narakasura on this day, liberating 16,000 women from his captivity. To celebrate this victory of good over evil, lamps were lit across the kingdom, a tradition that continues today.
- Lord Hanuman’s Birth Anniversary: In parts of North India, Narak Chaturdashi is also observed as Hanuman Jayanti. Devotees offer rice, jaggery, sesame seeds, ghee, and coconuts to Lord Hanuman on this day.
- Freedom from Hell: Lighting a four-sided diya at the entrance of the house is believed to protect one’s family from going to Narak (hell) and ensures salvation.
Regional Variations of Narak Chaturdashi
India’s cultural diversity makes every festival unique, and Choti Diwali is no exception.
- Bhoot Chaturdashi (West Bengal): In Bengal, this day is dedicated to ancestral spirits. Families light 14 lamps around the house to guide and honour their ancestors.
- Nombu in Tamil Nadu: Here, women observe a fast (Nombu) and worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and protection from evil forces.
- Harvest Festival in Rural India: In many villages, Narak Chaturdashi also marks the joy of harvest, with prayers for abundance and well-being.
- Hanuman Jayanti (North India): Special prayers and offerings are made to Lord Hanuman, with temples organising grand celebrations.
Why Choti Diwali is Spiritually Important?
Beyond customs and legends, Choti Diwali is a reminder of spiritual cleansing. It signifies:
- The victory of light over darkness.
- Gratitude to ancestors and remembrance of their blessings.
- The importance of charity and sharing with the less fortunate.
- The need to remove negativity before welcoming Goddess Lakshmi on Diwali.
Choti Diwali 2025, falling on October 19, is not just a prelude to the grand Diwali celebration but a festival with deep-rooted spiritual and cultural importance. Whether you call it Narak Chaturdashi, Bhoot Chaturdashi, or Chhoti Diwali, the day carries one universal message: eliminate darkness, embrace light, and spread goodness.
As families prepare for Diwali, Choti Diwali becomes the perfect occasion to cleanse the home, donate generously, and honour age-old traditions that continue to unite generations.
This year, as the diyas glow in every corner of your home on Choti Diwali, may they also light up your life with positivity, peace, and prosperity.
Also Read: Dhanteras 2025: Date, Mahurat, Puja Vidhi and Significance
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I’m Akanksha Sinha, a dedicated Sports Content Writer and Blogger with proven expertise in creating engaging sports blogs, news stories, and entertainment-driven articles. With a passion for storytelling and a strong command of research, I strive to deliver content that not only informs but also captivates readers across all age groups. At Possible11, she covers fantasy sports, match previews, and trending topics, making her a trusted voice for sports enthusiasts.
Over the years, I have developed a keen ability to analyze matches, players, and sports trends, turning raw information into reader-friendly narratives that spark conversation and build engagement. My work balances insightful analysis with entertainment value, making it appealing to both casual fans and dedicated sports enthusiasts.
I specialize in:
- Fantasy Sports Analysis
- Sports News & Updates
- Feature Writing
- Long-form storytelling & feature writing
- Entertainment, lifestyle, and sports culture content
With a blend of creativity and credibility, I aim to be a reliable voice in sports content, contributing to the growth of platforms while engaging a diverse global audience. My goal is to inspire, inform, and entertain through every piece I write.
