Narak Chaturdashi: The Dawn Before Deepavali’s Light

On the second day of the Diwali festival, before the great night of Lakshmi Pujan, comes Narak Chaturdashi—a day of purging darkness, inner renewal, and mythic triumph. It is sometimes called Chhoti Diwali, Kali Chaudas, Roop Chaudas, or even Bhoot Chaturdashi, depending on region. 

In this article, we’ll explore the legend, rituals, regional variations, spiritual meaning, and modern significance of Narak Chaturdashi. We’ll do it with storytelling, historic roots, and the emotional resonance that such an ancient festival holds in modern India.

The Legend and Meaning: Why Narak Chaturdashi Matters

At the heart of Narak Chaturdashi lies a dramatic narrative: the demon Narakasura had caused great suffering, captured many maidens, and spread darkness across the land. Lord Krishna, aided by Satyabhama (his consort), defeated Narakasura on this day, freeing those held captive and restoring cosmic order. 

Because of this, the day is also viewed symbolically: the annihilation of negativity, ego, ignorance, and fear. The festival’s name itself helps tell the story: Naraka refers to “hell” or suffering, and Chaturdashi means the 14th lunar day (Krishna Paksha). 

In some traditions, Kali (the fierce aspect of the goddess) is also honored, believing she played a role in vanquishing Narakasura. In these regions, the day is called Kali Chaudas (Kali + Chaudas).

Another layer: some interpret Narak Chaturdashi as a day of Yama worship (the god of death). Lamps (Yama Deepam) are lit facing the south, the direction associated with Yama, as a prayer for longevity and protection from untimely death. 

So Narak Chaturdashi is not just folklore — it’s a spiritual mirror. It asks: What in our lives is holding us in darkness? What do we choose to burn away and leave behind?

Rituals of Narak Chaturdashi: Purification, Light & Renewal

Abhyanga Snan (Oil Bath Before Sunrise)

One of the most distinguishing rituals is Abhyanga Snan — a carefully performed oil bath (often with sesame oil or ubtan) before sunrise while the Chaturdashi tithi is prevailing. This is thought to cleanse both body and spirit. Wikipedia+4Drik Panchang+4Drik Panchang+4

Many apply the ubtan (a paste of herbs, flour, sandalwood, turmeric) before bathing. It is believed to remove impurities and protect against negative influences.

Lighting Lamps (Diyas), Especially the Four-Faced Lamp

In the evening, homes are lit with diyas. A special four-faced lamp (one-sided or “Chaturmukha” diya) filled with mustard oil is placed, commonly facing the south to appease Yama. 

Lighting this lamp is seen as driving away negativity, shielding from untimely death, and inviting auspiciousness.

Cleansing, Decoration & Rangoli

Before the rituals, homes are thoroughly cleaned, whitewashed or repaired. Rangoli designs are drawn, doors and thresholds decorated with flowers or kolam. 

In some places, windows and doorways are smeared with kajal (kohl) or applied to the eyes in the morning, symbolically protecting from the “evil eye.” Wikipedia+2Drik Panchang+2

Fasting, Charity & Offerings

Some devotees fast or prepare sattvic food (without onion or garlic) for that day. Offering meals to priests, brahmins, or the needy is also practiced as an act of gratitude and spiritual merit. 

Regional Rituals

● In Goa, large effigies of Narakasura are made of paper and stuffed with dried grass and firecrackers. They are burnt at dawn to symbolize destruction of evil.

● In Western India (Gujarat, Maharashtra), the day is called Kali Chaudas. Some perform rituals at cremation grounds or worship Kali to destroy inner negativity. 

● In South India (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka), Narak Chaturdashi coincides with the main Diwali (“Deepavali”). The oil bath, lamp lighting, prayers, and bursting of crackers are done on this same day. 

These local flavors add richness to the festival’s tapestry, making it both uniform and beautifully diverse.

Narak Chaturdashi 2025: Date, Timings & Highlights

In 2025, Narak Chaturdashi is observed on October 20. 

The Abhyanga Snan period (pre-dawn oil bath) is considered auspicious in the early hours (exact muhurat depends on location) Buddy Loan+2Rudraksha Ratna+2

This day, in many states, is observed as a public or bank holiday (especially in parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu), though not universally. 

Narak Chaturdashi, though often overshadowed by Lakshmi Pujan, sets the spiritual tone for Diwali — preparing households, minds, and hearts to receive light.

Symbolism: What Narak Chaturdashi Teaches Us

Inner Cleansing Over External Glamour

The emphasis on oil baths, purification, and removing darkness is a metaphor: before inviting prosperity (Lakshmi), one must drive away internal blockages — fear, ignorance, laziness.

Triumph Over Ego & Negativity

Krishna defeating Narakasura is not just mythology. It’s a reminder that the fiercest battles often happen within — over greed, pride, envy. This day inspires courage to resist them.

Balance of Light & Shadow

By worshipping Yama, lighting lamps, and honoring Kali or death, Narak Chaturdashi acknowledges that life is a dance of shadow and illumination. Neither side should be ignored.

Continuity of Tradition & Modern Relevance

Though ancient, its rituals persist — evolving with time, adapting with awareness (e.g. eco-friendly lamps, reduced pollution). It shows how tradition and progress can coexist.

Tips to Observe Narak Chaturdashi Mindfully

● If possible, perform Abhyanga Snan before sunrise; use natural oils and herbs.

● Light a four-faced lamp filled with mustard oil toward the south (if tradition allows).

● Clean your home in daylight, repair broken spots, draw rangoli with eco colors.

● Prepare simple, sattvic meals; share with neighbors or needy ones.

● Reflect on your inner “demons” — what habits or emotions you wish to defeat this year.

● In places where effigies are burnt (like Goa), participate only if safe and lawful.

● Respect regional customs, local timings, and follow your family lineage tradition.

FAQ

1. Why do we celebrate Narak Chaturdashi?

Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated to mark Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It’s also a day for purification — people bathe before sunrise, light lamps, and remove negativity from their lives. The festival reminds us to destroy our inner darkness before welcoming Diwali’s light.

2. What is the difference between Narak Chaturdashi and Diwali?

Narak Chaturdashi (also known as Chhoti Diwali) falls one day before the main Diwali night. It focuses on cleansing, self-reflection, and preparing the home and soul for prosperity. Diwali, or Lakshmi Pujan, is the next night — the celebration of light, wealth, and divine blessings.

3. How is Narak Chaturdashi celebrated in different parts of India?

● In Goa, huge effigies of demon Narakasura are burnt at dawn.

● In Maharashtra and Gujarat, the day is known as Kali Chaudas, devoted to goddess Kali.

● In South India, the day marks the main Deepavali, with oil baths, new clothes, and fireworks.
 Each region’s tradition reflects the same message — the victory of light over darkness.

4. What is the significance of Abhyanga Snan on Narak Chaturdashi?

The Abhyanga Snan — a pre-dawn oil bath — is considered the most important ritual of Narak Chaturdashi. It purifies the body and mind, washing away past negativity. Taking this sacred bath is said to protect one from misfortune and bring spiritual strength and peace.

5. When is Narak Chaturdashi in 2025, and what is the best time for puja?

In 2025, Narak Chaturdashi will be observed on Monday, October 20. The ideal time for the Abhyanga Snan and lamp lighting (Yama Deepam) is during the pre-sunrise period, while the Chaturdashi tithi is in effect. Exact muhurat may vary slightly by location, so checking a local Panchang is recommended.