Before Diwali, people across India celebrate Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, which marks the second day of the five-day Diwali festival, following Dhanteras. The day symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is celebrated with devotion, light, and joy.
The Legend Behind Chhoti Diwali
According to Hindu mythology, the day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon king Narakasura, who ruled Pragjyotishpur (present-day Assam region, south of Nepal).
Narakasura had defeated several deities, imprisoned 16,000 daughters of gods and kings, and even stolen the earrings of Aditi, the mother of all gods. On the day before Naraka Chaturdashi, Lord Krishna defeated Narakasura, freed the captives, and restored Aditi’s earrings.
When Krishna returned home after his victory, people celebrated his triumph with lights and joy — and thus, Choti Diwali was born.
Rituals and Traditions of Chhoti Diwali
On Naraka Chaturdashi, devotees worship Lord Krishna, Lord Hanuman, Yamraj, and Goddess Kali to cleanse their souls of sins and negativity. Traditional puja samagri includes oil, flowers, sandalwood, and coconuts, along with prasada made of sesame, poha, ghee, and sugar.
The day is known by different names across regions —
- Kali Chaudas, Bhoot Chaudas, or Roop Chaudas in some states
- Abhyang Snan in Maharashtra, where people take a ritual oil bath early in the morning
In some regions, Choti Diwali and the main Diwali are celebrated on the same day.
Common Rituals Observed on Chhoti Diwali
- Taking an oil bath during Brahma Muhurat (early morning hours)
- Wearing new clothes
- Decorating homes with flowers and lights
- Making colorful rangolis at the entrance
- Lighting diyas (earthen lamps) to welcome positivity and prosperity
Top 10 Wishes, Messages, and Quotes to Share
- May this Choti Diwali light diyas and add colors of happiness to your life. Happy Chhoti Diwali!
- May the Almighty bless you with good health, wealth, and happiness. Happy Naraka Chaturdashi!
- May sparkling diyas bring joy, peace, and prosperity to your family. Happy Chhoti Diwali!
- Let the light of diyas fill your life with endless joy and positivity.
- May good triumph over evil, love over hate, and joy over despair — today and always.
- May Lord Rama bless you with virtues and success. Happy Chhoti Diwali 2023!
- May the diyas’ glow bring wealth, happiness, and success to your home.
- This Diwali, let us burst the ego, anger, envy, and negativity within us. Happy Chhoti Diwali!
- Sending you warm wishes and bright lights on this Choti Diwali.
- May this Diwali bring prosperity to your business and more opportunities to grow together.