Choti Diwali 2023: Why is it called Narak Chaturdashi? Know the date & importance

Choti Diwali is celebrated as Narak Chaturdashi to commemorate the triumph of goodness over evil.

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Edited By: Sonia Dham
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The festival of Choti Diwali is celebrated on the day of Narak Chaturdashi, a day before Diwali. This time, there is confusion regarding the date of Choti Diwali, weather it is on November 11 or November 12. Let us tell you when the festival of Choti Diwali will be celebrated.

When will Choti Diwali be celebrated on November 11 or 12?

Choti Diwali is celebrated on the day of Narak Chaturdashi. According to Hindu Panchang, Chaturdashi Tithi will begin at 1:57 PM, Nov 11 and will ends 2:44 PM, Nov 12. So, Choti Diwali will be celebrated on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

Why is Choti Diwali called Narak Chaturdashi?

According to scriptures, on the day of Narak Chaturdashi, Lord Shri Krishna had killed the demon named Narakasura. Narakasura had imprisoned more than 16 thousand women. Whom Lord Shri Krishna had liberated. Since then, Choti Diwali is celebrated as Narak Chaturdashi to commemorate the triumph of goodness over evil. 

On the day of Narak Chaturdashi, illuminate an oil lamp and present it as an offering to Yamraj. It is recommended to lit these lamps in the five directions and utilise sesame oil for kindling these lamps, avoid using mustard oil or ghee. Remember to lit one in the south direction. Besides, this lamp would also be in the name of the ancestors. By lighting a lamp in this direction, a person also receives blessings from his ancestors. Also, this lamp in the name of Yama eliminates the fear of untimely death from a person. By adhering to these rituals, the Choti Diwali puja shall culminate harmoniously and with due reverence.

As the festivities approach, family unites, which is a symbol of optimism and harmony.