AstrologgerNaraka Chaturdashi
8 November 2026 · Krishna
2026 dates are good-faith estimates from standard panchang references — confirm the exact date and muhurat against a current Panchang before planning.
Significance
Also called Choti Diwali, this day commemorates Krishna's slaying of the demon Narakasura. Celebrated with oil baths at dawn, firecrackers, and diyas lit to drive away darkness and evil.
Astrological significance
Naraka Chaturdashi falls on the fourteenth tithi of the waning moon, just before Kartik Amavasya and Diwali. The traditional Abhyanga Snan (ceremonial oil bath) is done in the pre-dawn hours of this Chaturdashi, a time given in the panchang. Being lunar, its Gregorian date shifts within October and November. In 2026 the tithis compress so that the pre-dawn Abhyanga Snan and Lakshmi Puja both fall on Sunday, 8 November; some regional calendars instead list Choti Diwali on 7 November — confirm with your local panchang.
Month: Kartik · Paksha: Krishna · Krishna Chaturdashi (fourteenth day of the waning moon) of Kartik — the day before Diwali (Amavasya).
How Naraka Chaturdashi is observed
- Taking a pre-dawn ceremonial oil bath (Abhyanga Snan)
- Lighting diyas to dispel darkness
- Recalling Krishna's defeat of the demon Narakasura
- Bursting firecrackers where customary
- Drawing rangoli and decorating the home
Frequently asked questions
When is Naraka Chaturdashi in 2026?+
In 2026 it falls on 8 November 2026. As a lunar festival the date shifts each year, so confirm against a current panchang.
Why is it also called Choti Diwali?+
It falls on the eve of the main Diwali day, so it is popularly known as "Choti" (small) Diwali.
What does Naraka Chaturdashi commemorate?+
It commemorates Krishna's slaying of the demon Narakasura, celebrated as the removal of darkness and evil.
What is the Abhyanga Snan?+
It is the traditional pre-dawn oil bath taken on this Chaturdashi, whose recommended time is noted in the panchang.