Naraka Chaturdashi is one of the most meaningful festivals celebrated during the Diwali season. Known as Choti Diwali, Narak Chaudas and Roop Chaturdashi, this sacred day reminds us that good always has the strength to overcome evil. It is a time to cleanse the body and mind, welcome positivity into the home, and prepare for the festival of lights.
The festival is associated with the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Devotees observe traditional rituals, take an auspicious oil bath before sunrise, light diyas, and offer prayers for peace, prosperity and protection.
In 2026, Naraka Chaturdashi will be observed on Sunday, November 8. Interestingly, Diwali Lakshmi Puja also falls on the evening of the same day in India.
Let us explore the date, auspicious timings, religious significance, puja vidhi, Abhyanga Snan rituals and the story behind Naraka Chaturdashi.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2026 Date and Muhurat
Naraka Chaturdashi is observed on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi, the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu lunar month.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2026 Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Important Timings for New Delhi:
Naraka Chaturdashi: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Krishna Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: November 7, 2026, at approximately 10:47 AM
Krishna Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: November 8, 2026, at approximately 11:27 AM
Abhyanga Snan Muhurat: 5:41 AM to 6:38 AM
Abhyanga Snan Duration: Approximately 57 minutes
These timings are based on the New Delhi Panchang. Since sunrise and other astronomical timings differ from one location to another, devotees should check the local Panchang before performing the rituals.
Why Is Naraka Chaturdashi Celebrated?
Naraka Chaturdashi celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura, a powerful demon who had become a source of fear and suffering.
According to Hindu tradition, Narakasura ruled with cruelty and imprisoned many people. His growing arrogance and misuse of power disturbed the balance of the world. Lord Krishna, accompanied by his wife Satyabhama, fought against the demon and defeated him.
The victory brought freedom and relief to those who had suffered under Narakasura’s rule. It became a symbol of the triumph of righteousness over wrongdoing.
The festival also carries a deeper message. Naraka, or darkness, can be understood as a symbol of ignorance, negative thoughts, greed and ego. Naraka Chaturdashi encourages devotees to remove these inner obstacles and make room for wisdom, compassion and positive living.
Naraka Chaturdashi Vrat Katha: The Story of Lord Krishna and Narakasura
Long ago, Narakasura was a powerful demon king who ruled the kingdom of Pragjyotishpur. He had received great strength and blessings, but over time, his pride and arrogance grew.
Instead of using his power for the welfare of others, Narakasura began to trouble innocent people. He captured women, imprisoned many individuals and spread fear throughout his kingdom. His actions caused great distress among the people and the celestial beings.
Unable to bear his cruelty any longer, the gods approached Lord Krishna and prayed for help.
Lord Krishna decided to end Narakasura’s tyranny. In some traditional accounts, Satyabhama accompanied him into battle and played an important role in defeating the demon.
After a fierce fight, Narakasura was defeated. His death brought freedom to the captives and restored peace.
Before his death, Narakasura is said in popular tradition to have expressed a wish that the day of his defeat should be celebrated with joy and light rather than sorrow. People began lighting lamps and celebrating the victory of good over evil.
This story is remembered on Naraka Chaturdashi. It teaches us that no matter how powerful negativity may appear, truth and righteousness can ultimately prevail.
Significance of Abhyanga Snan on Naraka Chaturdashi
One of the most important rituals of Naraka Chaturdashi is Abhyanga Snan, the traditional oil bath performed before sunrise.
Devotees apply oil to their bodies, often followed by a bath using traditional cleansing preparations such as ubtan. The ritual is considered a symbol of purification, renewal and the removal of negativity.
In Hindu belief, taking Abhyanga Snan on Naraka Chaturdashi is associated with spiritual cleansing and protection from Naraka, or the suffering of the afterlife.
The ritual also offers a beautiful reminder to begin the day with a clean body, a peaceful mind and a positive outlook.
How to Perform Abhyanga Snan
Wake up early, preferably during the auspicious pre-dawn period.
Apply sesame oil or another traditional bathing oil to the body.
Gently massage the oil into the skin.
Use traditional ubtan, if it is part of your family’s custom.
Take a bath before sunrise during the prescribed muhurat.
Wear clean clothes after bathing.
Offer prayers to Lord Krishna, Lord Yama or the deity worshipped in your family tradition.
Devotees may also recite prayers and mantras while performing the bath.
Naraka Chaturdashi Puja Vidhi
The puja vidhi may differ across regions and families. The following is a simple traditional way to observe the festival at home.
1. Clean the Home
Clean the house before the festival. Decorate the entrance with rangoli, flowers and traditional designs. A clean and welcoming home is considered a symbol of positivity.
2. Take an Auspicious Bath
Perform Abhyanga Snan before sunrise according to the local muhurat. Wear fresh and clean clothes after bathing.
3. Offer Prayers
Offer prayers to Lord Krishna, who is remembered for defeating Narakasura. In some regions, devotees also worship Lord Hanuman, Goddess Kali or Lord Yama according to their local customs.
4. Light Diyas
Light earthen lamps using oil or ghee. Place them near the entrance, in the courtyard, on windowsills and in the puja area.
The gentle glow of diyas symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
5. Offer Naivedya
Prepare traditional sweets and food items for the deity. Offer fruits, sweets and other naivedya according to family tradition.
6. Perform Aarti
Perform aarti and offer prayers for the well-being of family members. Seek blessings for health, peace, happiness and prosperity.
Yama Deepam on Naraka Chaturdashi
Yama Deepam is a traditional ritual in which a diya is lit in honor of Lord Yama, the deity associated with death and justice.
In some traditions, a lamp is placed outside the home, often near the entrance, facing the appropriate direction according to local customs. Devotees pray for protection, good health and the well-being of their family.
The exact day and method of observing Yama Deepam can vary by region and Panchang tradition. Families should follow their local customs and guidance.
What Is the Difference Between Naraka Chaturdashi and Choti Diwali?
Naraka Chaturdashi is commonly called Choti Diwali because it is traditionally observed around the day before the main Diwali celebration.
The names refer to the same festival in many parts of India. However, regional traditions may use different names, such as:
Narak Chaudas
Roop Chaturdashi
Kali Chaudas
Bhoot Chaturdashi
In 2026, Naraka Chaturdashi falls on November 8, and Diwali Lakshmi Puja is also observed on the evening of November 8 in India. This overlap occurs because the festival dates are determined by the Hindu lunar calendar and the relevant tithi and ritual timings.
Naraka Chaturdashi Puja Samagri
Devotees may prepare the following items for the puja:
Earthen diyas
Sesame oil or ghee
Cotton wicks
Flowers
Kumkum and turmeric
Akshat (unbroken rice)
Incense sticks
Fruits
Traditional sweets
Panchamrit, if used in the family’s puja
Clean water
A puja thali
The required samagri may vary according to regional traditions and the specific deity being worshipped.
Spiritual Message of Naraka Chaturdashi
Naraka Chaturdashi is more than a festival of rituals and lamps. It offers an opportunity to reflect on our own lives.
The story of Narakasura reminds us that pride, anger and selfishness can lead to suffering. The victory of Lord Krishna encourages us to choose truth, kindness and righteousness.
The Abhyanga Snan symbolizes cleansing and renewal. The diyas represent hope and the light of wisdom. Together, these traditions inspire us to let go of negativity and welcome a fresh beginning.
The festival encourages us to bring light not only into our homes but also into our thoughts, relationships and actions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Naraka Chaturdashi 2026
When is Naraka Chaturdashi in 2026?
Naraka Chaturdashi will be observed on Sunday, November 8, 2026, in India.
What is another name for Naraka Chaturdashi?
Naraka Chaturdashi is also known as Choti Diwali, Narak Chaudas and Roop Chaturdashi. In certain regions, it is called Kali Chaudas or Bhoot Chaturdashi.
What is the Abhyanga Snan muhurat for Naraka Chaturdashi 2026?
For New Delhi, the Abhyanga Snan muhurat is approximately 5:41 AM to 6:38 AM on November 8, 2026. Timings vary by location.
Who killed Narakasura?
Lord Krishna defeated Narakasura. In many traditional accounts, Satyabhama also played a significant role in the battle.
Why is Abhyanga Snan performed on Naraka Chaturdashi?
Abhyanga Snan is a traditional pre-dawn oil bath associated with purification, renewal and the removal of negativity.
Is Naraka Chaturdashi the same as Choti Diwali?
Yes. Naraka Chaturdashi is widely known as Choti Diwali, although the names and specific customs may differ across regions.
What should we do on Naraka Chaturdashi?
Devotees traditionally take an early morning oil bath, offer prayers, light diyas, perform puja and remember Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
Conclusion
Naraka Chaturdashi is a festival that celebrates courage, righteousness and the victory of good over evil. Through Abhyanga Snan, prayers, diya lighting and traditional rituals, devotees welcome positivity and prepare their hearts and homes for Diwali.
The story of Lord Krishna and Narakasura reminds us that darkness can never overcome the light of truth. May this Naraka Chaturdashi bring peace, happiness, good health and prosperity to every home.
Happy Naraka Chaturdashi 2026!
