Choti Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, will be observed on Sunday, 8 November 2026, according to the New Delhi festival calendar. The day celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. Traditions include Abhyang Snan before sunrise, lighting diyas, decorating the home and offering prayers for well-being.
What Is Choti Diwali?
Choti Diwali is a Hindu festival associated with the victory of good over evil. Also called Narak Chaturdashi, it commemorates Lord Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura. Families traditionally take an early morning oil bath, light lamps, prepare sweets and decorate their homes. Depending on regional customs and the lunar calendar, some observances take place on different dates.
Choti Diwali vs Narak Chaturdashi vs Kali Chaudas vs Roop Chaudas
These names are associated with Chaturdashi traditions, but their observances can differ by region.
- Choti Diwali: The popular name for Narak Chaturdashi in many parts of India.
- Narak Chaturdashi: The festival associated with Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
- Kali Chaudas: A regional observance particularly associated with Gujarat.
- Roop Chaudas: A name used in parts of North India, associated with bathing and personal care rituals.
When Is Choti Diwali in 2026?
Choti Diwali, or Narak Chaturdashi, falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026, according to Drik Panchang’s New Delhi calendar. The Chaturdashi tithi begins on Saturday, 7 November, and ends on Sunday, 8 November. The early morning Abhyang Snan is observed on the 8th.
| Detail | Date |
| Choti Diwali / Narak Chaturdashi | Sunday, 8 November 2026 |
| Chaturdashi tithi begins | 7 November 2026, around 10:48 AM |
| Chaturdashi tithi ends | 8 November 2026, around 11:28 AM |
| Source | Drik Panchang, New Delhi |
Why Some Calendars Say 7 November and Others 8 November
Some calendars list 7 November because the Chaturdashi tithi begins that morning and continues into the following day. Other calendars assign Narak Chaturdashi to 8 November based on the tithi prevailing before sunrise, when Abhyang Snan is traditionally performed. Kali Chaudas and other regional observances may also follow different timing rules.
Why Is Narak Chaturdashi Celebrated? (Krishna, Satyabhama and Narakasura)
Narak Chaturdashi celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna and Satyabhama over Narakasura, a powerful demon king. According to Hindu tradition, Narakasura had imprisoned thousands of people and spread fear across his kingdom.
Krishna, accompanied by Satyabhama, defeated Narakasura and freed the captives. The victory came to represent the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This story is central to the meaning of Narak Chaturdashi.
For more devotional reading, explore our guide to Krishna Janmashtami.
How to Do Abhyang Snan on Narak Chaturdashi
Abhyang Snan is a traditional oil massage and bath taken before sunrise on Narak Chaturdashi. It is believed to cleanse the body and symbolise renewal before the festive day begins.
New Delhi Abhyang Snan muhurat for 2026: approximately 5:36 AM to 6:38 AM on Sunday, 8 November. Check the local Panchang for your city’s exact timing. AstroSage Panchang
A simple traditional routine:
- Apply sesame oil to the body before bathing, if customary.
- Use a traditional ubtan if desired.
- Bathe before sunrise during the recommended local muhurat.
- Wear clean clothes and begin the day with prayers.
Yam Deepam on Choti Diwali: How and When to Light
Yam Deepam is a diya lit in honour of Yamraj, the deity associated with death. In some traditions, the lamp is placed outside the home facing south, accompanied by prayers for the family’s well-being. The custom may be observed on Dhanteras or Narak Chaturdashi, depending on regional practice.
To observe the tradition, place an earthen diya on a stable, fire-safe surface, add oil and a cotton wick, and light it at the customary time. Keep it away from curtains and other flammable materials.
What to Do on Choti Diwali: Ritual Checklist
Here are six simple ways to celebrate Choti Diwali at home:
- Take an early morning Abhyang Snan.
- Clean and decorate the entrance.
- Light diyas around the home.
- Offer prayers according to family tradition.
- Prepare or share festive sweets.
- Create a rangoli using traditional patterns.
Narak Chaturdashi Rangoli and Decoration Ideas
Decorate your entrance with a colourful rangoli featuring flowers, diyas, lotus motifs or traditional geometric patterns. Add marigold garlands and small earthen lamps to create a festive atmosphere. Choose designs that leave enough space for people to walk safely.
How Is Choti Diwali Celebrated in Different Regions?
Choti Diwali traditions vary across India. In parts of North India, families focus on Abhyang Snan, diyas and preparations for Lakshmi Puja. Gujarat observes Kali Chaudas, while Roop Chaudas is associated with bathing and personal care in some regions. In parts of South India, the early morning oil bath is an important Deepavali tradition.
For the broader festival schedule, read our guide to the Diwali festival of lights.
Choti Diwali Wishes and Messages
Share these simple wishes with family and friends:
- Happy Choti Diwali! May your home be filled with light, joy and togetherness.
- May the victory of good over evil inspire you to welcome every new beginning with hope.
- Wishing you and your family a peaceful, bright and blessed Narak Chaturdashi.
- May the glow of every diya bring warmth and happiness to your celebrations.
Listen to Krishna and Durga Bhajans
Make your Choti Diwali prayers more devotional with Krishna and Durga bhajans from Soulful Bhajans’ devotional video collection. Play a favourite bhajan as you prepare for the festivities.
You can also explore our guide to the 108 names of Maa Durga.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which day is Choti Diwali in 2026?
Choti Diwali is observed on Sunday, 8 November 2026, according to the New Delhi festival calendar. Some calendars list 7 November because the Chaturdashi tithi begins that day.
Is Choti Diwali the same as Narak Chaturdashi?
Yes. Choti Diwali is a common name for Narak Chaturdashi, the Hindu festival associated with Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
Why is Choti Diwali celebrated?
Choti Diwali commemorates Krishna and Satyabhama’s defeat of Narakasura. The story symbolises the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
What is Kali Chaudas?
Kali Chaudas is a regional observance associated with Chaturdashi, particularly in Gujarat. Its rituals and timing may differ from those followed for Choti Diwali elsewhere.
What is Roop Chaudas?
Roop Chaudas is a regional name associated with Narak Chaturdashi. In some traditions, it emphasises the early morning bath and personal care rituals.
Do we light diyas on Choti Diwali?
Yes. Many families light diyas, decorate their homes and offer prayers. The number and placement of lamps depend on family and regional customs.
Can Choti Diwali and Diwali fall on the same day?
Yes. In 2026, Narak Chaturdashi and Lakshmi Puja are both listed on Sunday, 8 November in the New Delhi calendar. This happens when the relevant tithi timings place the morning observance and evening puja on the same Gregorian date.
