Harshvardhan Mishra
Introduction
Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali or Roop Chaudas, marks the second day of the grand Diwali festival. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the destruction of evil forces. The day holds great spiritual and cultural importance across India as devotees perform sacred baths, light diyas, and pray for liberation from negativity and sins.
In 2025, Narak Chaturdashi falls on Monday, October 20, and it is considered one of the most auspicious mornings for performing Abhyang Snan (holy oil bath) before sunrise.
Narak Chaturdashi 2025: Date and Time
| Event | Date & Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Narak Chaturdashi 2025 | Monday, October 20, 2025 |
| Abhyang Snan Muhurat | 05:13 AM to 06:25 AM |
| Duration | 01 Hour 12 Minutes |
| Krishna Dashami Moonrise (for Abhyang Snan) | 05:13 AM |
| Chaturdashi Tithi Begins | 01:51 PM on October 19, 2025 |
| Chaturdashi Tithi Ends | 03:44 PM on October 20, 2025 |
The Abhyang Snan during Chaturdashi and Moonrise is the most sacred period for cleansing rituals, believed to destroy sins and negative karma, and bring prosperity and purity into one’s life.
Significance of Narak Chaturdashi
Narak Chaturdashi commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who symbolized arrogance, ignorance, and evil. It is believed that after slaying Narakasura, Krishna returned early in the morning and bathed before sunrise — setting the divine example of Abhyang Snan, a ritual still followed today.
Spiritually, the day is symbolic of removing darkness from within — both in mind and surroundings — and preparing oneself for the divine festival of Diwali that follows.
Importance of Abhyang Snan
Abhyang Snan is not just a physical cleansing ritual but a deeply symbolic act of spiritual purification.
- Timing: The holy bath is performed during Brahma Muhurat, just before sunrise.
- Substances Used: Traditionally, people use sesame or mustard oil mixed with herbs and apply ubtan (a natural paste of gram flour, turmeric, and sandalwood).
- Belief: Taking this bath at the auspicious time (05:13 AM to 06:25 AM) ensures freedom from disease, fear, and negative influences.
After the ritual, diyas are lit around the house, symbolizing light, knowledge, and divine energy replacing ignorance and darkness.
Narak Chaturdashi Rituals and Practices
- Pre-dawn Abhyang Snan:
Wake up early before sunrise and perform an oil massage followed by a holy bath while facing the east. This symbolizes inner and outer purification. - Lighting Diyas:
After bathing, devotees light earthen lamps (diyas) around the home, at the main entrance, and near the Tulsi plant, inviting positive energy and wealth. - Offering Prayers to Lord Krishna and Yama:
Devotees pray to Lord Krishna for protection and to Lord Yama, the god of death, for good health and longevity. - Naraka Nivaran Puja:
Some families perform special prayers to ward off evil and misfortune, offering flowers, sweets, and incense to deities. - Feasting and Celebrations:
Traditional sweets and snacks like laddus, chaklis, and karanjis are prepared and shared with neighbors and family members.
The Story Behind Narak Chaturdashi
According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura, the powerful demon king of Pragjyotishpur, became arrogant and started tormenting the Devas and humans. He captured thousands of women and stole the divine earrings of Aditi, the mother of the gods.
Lord Krishna, along with his consort Satyabhama, defeated and killed Narakasura on this day, liberating the captives and restoring peace. Before his death, Narakasura requested that his demise be celebrated with joy and lights — which is why this day is celebrated as Choti Diwali.
Spiritual Meaning
- Victory of Good over Evil: A reminder that truth, purity, and light will always overcome darkness and negativity.
- Purification of the Soul: The holy bath represents cleansing the mind and soul of impurities and past actions.
- Preparation for Diwali: Narak Chaturdashi sets the stage for Diwali, helping devotees enter the festival of lights with a pure heart.
Do’s and Don’ts on Narak Chaturdashi
Do’s:
✅ Take an early morning bath during Abhyang Snan Muhurat.
✅ Offer lamps (Deep Daan) to Lord Yama at sunset.
✅ Clean and decorate your home with diyas and flowers.
✅ Distribute sweets and light crackers responsibly.
Don’ts:
❌ Avoid anger, arguments, and negative speech.
❌ Don’t sleep after sunrise before performing rituals.
❌ Avoid non-vegetarian food and alcohol on this sacred day.
Narak Chaturdashi 2025 Wishes
🪔 May Lord Krishna remove all negativity from your life and fill it with light and joy.
🌅 Wishing you peace, prosperity, and divine blessings on Narak Chaturdashi 2025.
🔥 Let this Choti Diwali bring light to your heart and destroy all darkness within.
🌺 May your life shine brighter than a thousand diyas this Narak Chaturdashi.
💫 Celebrate the dawn of purity, courage, and happiness — Happy Narak Chaturdashi!
Captions for Social Media
- “The dawn of light and courage — Happy Narak Chaturdashi 2025! 🪔🌅”
- “A sacred morning, a pure beginning — let the light of truth shine! ✨”
- “Bathe in positivity, rise in purity, and shine in light. 🌼 #NarakChaturdashi2025”
- “When light conquers darkness, new beginnings bloom. 🌺 #ChotiDiwali”
- “Let this divine morning cleanse your soul — Happy Narak Chaturdashi! 🔥”
Conclusion
Narak Chaturdashi 2025, falling on Monday, October 20, is a day of spiritual awakening, purification, and inner renewal. The Abhyang Snan Muhurat (05:13 AM to 06:25 AM) marks the ideal time to wash away past negativity and welcome divine light.
As you light your diyas and pray to Lord Krishna, may your life be filled with brightness, peace, and prosperity — leading you beautifully into the grand festival of Diwali.
