Narak Chaturdashi 2025: Significance of Choti Diwali, Worship Rituals, Regional Celebrations and Puranic Stories
By Pt. Amitabh Sharma
The slaying of Narakasura, Yama worship, sesame-jaggery offerings and cultural diversity across India
Table of Contents
Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, is an important part of the Diwali festival. It symbolizes victory of light over darkness and destruction of evil forces. This day is observed before the main celebration and is completed with diverse customs across India.
In 2025 Narak Chaturdashi will be celebrated on Sunday, 19 October. The Chaturdashi tithi begins at 1:51 PM on 19 October and remains until 3:44 PM on 20 October. Since this festival is usually observed at night, the main puja and rituals take place on the evening of 19 October. The main Diwali day follows, when Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped.
Religious and spiritual importance of Narak Chaturdashi
Narak Chaturdashi is observed in remembrance of Lord Krishna slaying the demon Narakasura. According to the Puranas, Narakasura tormented gods and humans. Lord Krishna brought him down and opened the path of welfare for all.
This day represents victory over enemies, freedom from negativity and the arrival of spiritual light. Its message is simple. Darkness may grow, yet light wins in the end.
On this day Lord Yama is also worshipped. It is believed that Lord Yama blesses devotees every year on this day and removes their sufferings. Hence sesame, jaggery and other items are offered to Lord Yama.
Puja method and rituals
- Clean the entire house thoroughly. Negativity is removed through proper cleaning.
- Light lamps in all corners of the home, especially toward the south which is associated with Yama.
- Prepare the worship area. Keep Tulasi, jaggery, sesame, clothes for the needy, sweets for offering and water.
- Worship Lord Yama. Offer sesame, jaggery, sweets made with cow’s milk and naivedya. Remember the ancestors and pray for their peace.
- Light lamps at the main entrance and in the courtyard. It is believed that the light removes darkness and negative forces.
- Night vigil. In many places people sing folk songs, chant bhajans and hold dances through the night which makes the celebration grand.
- Charity. Donating sesame, jaggery, clothes, grains and money is considered highly meritorious on this day.
Regional traditions
- Bengal. It is observed as Bhuta Chaturdashi. Families light fourteen lamps at night in memory of ancestors.
- Maharashtra. The day is also observed as Hanuman Jayanti. Devotees worship Hanuman and follow fasting.
- Tamil Nadu. A simple fast is kept and preparation for Lakshmi Puja is completed.
- Gujarat. Special lamp festivals are held at the seashore. Washing vessels at the beach and worship proceed according to local custom.
- North India. Lighting lamps is customary along with specific agrarian prayers. Grand celebrations take place in Kashi and Ayodhya.
Importance of sesame and jaggery donations
Sesame and jaggery are offered to ancestors and Lord Yama. This is seen as removing darkness and bringing prosperity. Charity increases merit and brings peace to life.
Puranic stories
The story of Narakasura’s slaying
According to the Puranas, Narakasura was a tyrannical demon who had imprisoned Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Krishna killed Narakasura and freed the Goddess. This incident is observed as victory and the triumph of good over evil.
Yama and sesame donation
One story says that Lord Yama instructed his devotees on this day to donate fourteen kinds of sesame. Sesame donation pleases the ancestors. It is believed that donating sesame, jaggery and clothes brings peace to departed souls.
Message of eternity
This festival also teaches that light follows every period of darkness. The slaying of Narakasura shows that pride and evil forces end eventually. A person who observes this fast with sincere devotion finds a happier life.
Scientific perspective
Smoke produced during a havan removes harmful bacteria and viruses from the air. Light from oil lamps creates a positive charge in the surroundings which reduces negative energy and brings a calm mind.
Fasting teaches physical and mental discipline. It is a very effective practice for purification of the inner self.
Prasada and dishes
Special dishes are prepared for Narak Chaturdashi. These include malpua, puri and jaggery peanut laddus. Kadhi, chole and other sweets are also served.
Table. Key points of importance
| Subject | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, 19 October 2025 |
| Puja time | Evening 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Main deities | Lord Shiva, Lord Yama, Narakasura, Goddess Lakshmi |
| Main rituals | Lighting lamps, sesame and jaggery donation, proper worship |
| Regional festivals | Bengal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, North India |
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
-
When is Narak Chaturdashi observed
It is observed one day before Diwali, on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi. -
Was Narakasura a real figure
Yes. The Puranas describe Narakasura as a demon who obstructed dharma. -
What is the importance of sesame and jaggery donations
Donation of sesame and jaggery brings peace to the ancestors and destroys negative forces. -
Must the fast be completely waterless
The rule varies by region and individual. A waterless fast is considered more meritorious. -
What special dishes are prepared during Narak Chaturdashi
Malpua, jaggery laddus and puri are prepared as traditional foods.
