Karwa Chauth
Home / Karwa Chauth 2026: Date, Moonrise
Diwali is known as the festival of lights, but before the grand celebrations begin, Choti Diwali reminds us of something equally meaningful: the importance of removing darkness and welcoming positivity into our lives.
Also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, Choti Diwali is associated with spiritual cleansing, the victory of good over evil, and preparing ourselves for new beginnings
But what is the deeper meaning of Choti Diwali? How many diyas should we light? When is the auspicious time to perform the rituals? Let’s explore the traditions and spiritual significance behind this special occasion.
Choti Diwali, or Naraka Chaturdashi, is observed on the fourteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha during the Diwali festival period.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, freeing people from his oppression. The story represents the victory of righteousness over evil and light over darkness.
Spiritually, Choti Diwali can also be understood as a reminder to overcome the fears, negativity, and unhealthy patterns that hold us back. Just as we illuminate our homes with diyas, the festival encourages us to bring greater awareness, kindness, and positivity into our thoughts and actions.
In 2026, Naraka Chaturdashi will be observed on Sunday, November 8, according to the New Delhi Panchang.
| What we buy | Where the idea comes from |
|---|---|
|
Chaturdashi Tithi begins |
: November 7, 2026, at 10:47 AM |
|
Chaturdashi Tithi ends |
: November 8, 2026, at 11:27 AM |
|
Abhyanga Snan Muhurat |
: November 8, from 5:41 AM to 6:38 AM |
Abhyanga Snan is traditionally performed before sunrise and is associated with purification and renewal.
An important distinction is that Yama Deepam, the traditional lamp offering to Lord Yama, falls on the Trayodashi evening of November 6 in the 2026 New Delhi Panchang. Some families follow different inherited customs for their evening lamps.
As auspicious timings vary by city and ritual, always check the local Panchang and your family tradition.
One of the most common questions during Choti Diwali is: How many diyas should be lit, and what do they represent?
There is no single compulsory number of diyas for every Hindu household. The number depends on regional traditions, family beliefs, and the type of worship performed.
In the Yama Deepam tradition, a special diya is lit in honour of Lord Yama. It is commonly placed outside the home, with the flame traditionally oriented towards the south. The ritual is associated with prayers for the protection and well-being of family members.
Some families light fourteen diyas during the Choti Diwali festival period. The number fourteen is associated with Chaturdashi, meaning the fourteenth lunar day.
In Bengal, a particularly important tradition involves lighting fourteen lamps during Bhoot Chaturdashi. These lamps are associated with remembrance of ancestors and protective beliefs. However, lighting fourteen diyas is not a universal requirement across India.
Yes. Some families light a single special diya, while others illuminate their entrances, courtyards, balconies, and prayer spaces with several lamps.
The exact number is less important than following your family’s religious customs with care and sincerity. A diya represents light, hope, and the intention to welcome goodness into the home.
At the main entrance: Lighting a diya near the entrance is associated with welcoming light and auspiciousness.
In the prayer area: A diya may be lit during prayers as a symbol of devotion.
Near the Tulsi plant: Families that follow Tulsi worship may place a lamp nearby.
In the courtyard or balcony: Diyas illuminate shared spaces and create a welcoming festive atmosphere.
Outside the home for Yama Deepam: This particular ritual follows its own traditional placement and timing.
Always place diyas on stable, heat-resistant surfaces and keep them away from curtains or flammable decorations. Never leave a burning diya unattended.
Lighting a diya is one of the most recognised traditions of Diwali. But beyond decoration, the small flame carries a powerful symbolic meaning.
The light represents knowledge, hope, and awareness, while darkness is often associated with ignorance, fear, and uncertainty.
On Choti Diwali, lighting a diya can serve as a reminder to reflect on the things we wish to leave behind and the qualities we hope to strengthen. It encourages us to move forward with gratitude, patience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Cleaning and decorating our homes is an important part of the festive season. But what if we also made space within ourselves?
Choti Diwali offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on emotional and mental clutter. Just as we remove unnecessary things from our surroundings, we can consider letting go of habits, worries, or expectations that no longer serve us.
This does not mean every problem disappears with a ritual. Rather, the festival offers a moment to pause and reflect.
What am I grateful for this year?
What habits would I like to improve?
What thoughts or worries deserve less of my attention?
How can I bring more kindness and balance into everyday life?
In this way, the tradition of cleansing becomes more than a household activity. It becomes a personal reminder of renewal.
Choti Diwali does not have to be elaborate to feel special.
Begin your day with a traditional bath or prayer if that is part of your family’s custom. Clean and decorate your home, light diyas safely at the appropriate time, and spend a few peaceful moments with your loved ones.
You can also use the occasion for gratitude, reflection, and setting positive intentions for the coming days.
Whether you light one diya or many, the spirit of the celebration lies in its meaning rather than the scale of the decorations.
There is no universal compulsory number. One special diya may be lit for Yama Deepam, while fourteen lamps are associated with particular Chaturdashi traditions, especially Bhoot Chaturdashi in Bengal.
health (Lord Dhanvantari), lasting wealth (Lakshmi and Kuber) and the protection of
family (Yam Deepdaan).
Fourteen is associated with Chaturdashi, the fourteenth lunar day. In Bengali tradition, fourteen lamps are also linked to remembrance of ancestors.
Choti Diwali is commonly known as Naraka Chaturdashi. Related regional observances include Roop Chaudas, Kali Chaudas, and Bhoot Chaturdashi, although their exact customs and dates can differ.
In New Delhi, the Abhyanga Snan Muhurat is from 5:41 AM to 6:38 AM on November 8, 2026.
Choti Diwali symbolises the victory of good over evil, purification, courage, renewal, and the importance of welcoming light into our lives.
Choti Diwali is more than the beginning of festive celebrations. Its rituals remind us of the importance of light, goodness, protection, and renewal.
From the symbolism of Narakasura’s defeat to the tradition of lighting diyas, every aspect of the festival carries a message worth reflecting upon.
And while cleaning our homes prepares us for Diwali, taking a moment to reflect on our thoughts and intentions can make the celebration even more meaningful.
This Choti Diwali, light your diyas, cherish your traditions, and make space for brighter beginnings.
Wishing you and your family a peaceful and meaningful Choti Diwali.
Home / Karwa Chauth 2026: Date, Moonrise
Learn the meaning of every Karwa Chauth
Home / Karwa Chauth for Modern Couples:
Home / More Than Gold: The Real