Choti Diwali 2024 Date, Time and Abhyanga Snan Rituals: Naraka Chaturdashi Celebrations, Importance, Legends and Puja Shubh Muhurat; All You Need To Know

Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, Choti Deepavali, Roop Chaturdashi and Roop Chaudas, is the festival celebrated one day before the main Diwali festival. Choti Diwali 2024 date falls on Thursday, October 31. This day holds significant importance in Hindu culture and is marked by various rituals and celebrations that set the stage for the grandeur of Diwali. There are numerous important rituals, such as Abhyanga Snan and preparation for Badi Diwali when Lakshmi Pujan takes place. Choti Diwali celebrations include finalising rangoli designs, lighting diyas and more. In addition to this, we will also look at Naraka Chaturdashi shubh muhurat and mythological stories associated with the festival day. Diwali 2024 Full Calendar With Date and Time: When Is Dhanteras and Lakshmi Puja? Know About Rituals, Shubh Muhurat and Significance to Celebrate 5-Day Festival of Lights.

Choti Diwali 2024 Date and Shubh Muhurat

This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 31. According to Drik Panchang, both Choti Deepawali and Lakshmi Puja will take place on this day. On Choti Diwali, specific timings or shubh muhurat are essential for performing rituals. Here are the auspicious timings to remember:

• Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 6:52 PM to 8:41 PM
• Pradosh Kaal: 6:10 PM to 8:52 PM
• Vrishabha Kaal: 6:52 PM to 8:41 PM
• Amavasya Tithi Begins: 6:22 AM on October 31
• Amavasya Tithi Ends: 8:46 AM on November 1

Importance and Significance of Choti Diwali

Choti Diwali is rooted in various mythological stories, one of which recounts Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura. The day symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, making it a crucial part of the Diwali celebrations. As the day before the main Diwali festival, Choti Diwali serves as a preparation day. Families clean and decorate their homes, prepare sweets and set the atmosphere for the grand celebrations to follow. The rituals performed on Choti Diwali are believed to cleanse and purify the environment, paving the way for prosperity and happiness in the upcoming year.

Celebration and Rituals

Choti Diwali is celebrated with enthusiasm across various regions of India, with different customs and rituals observed. Here are some common practices:

1. Early Morning Rituals: On Choti Diwali, devotees wake up early and take a ritual bath, which is believed to purify the body and soul. Many people use special herbal powders to enhance the cleansing process. Abhyanga Snan 2024 Date and Timings: Know Abhyang Snan Muhurat, Chaturdashi Tithi and Significance of the Traditional Ritual Performed on Choti Diwali.

2. Worship of Deities: After bathing, families perform puja (worship) of deities, particularly Lord Krishna and Goddess Lakshmi. Sweets, flowers, and incense are offered, and prayers are recited to seek blessings for health, wealth, and happiness.

3. Lighting of Diyas: Just like in Diwali, lighting diyas (oil lamps) holds significant importance on Choti Diwali. Homes are illuminated with small earthen lamps and colourful lights, creating a festive ambience.

4. Rangoli Designs: Families often create beautiful rangoli designs at their entrances using coloured powders, flowers, or rice. This not only beautifies the home but is also believed to invite good fortune.

5. Fireworks and Festivities: In many regions, small firecrackers are lit in celebration. However, the scale is usually smaller compared to the main Diwali night.

Sharing Sweets: Exchanging sweets with neighbours and friends is a common practice, fostering a sense of community and goodwill.

Choti Diwali is a vital part of the Diwali celebrations, embodying themes of purification, victory over evil, and preparation for the festivities to come. With its rich traditions and rituals, this day sets the tone for the grand celebration of Diwali. As families come together to celebrate, they create cherished memories while reinforcing their cultural values and traditions. Embrace the spirit of Choti Diwali this year, and let the light of joy and prosperity fill your home!

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 21, 2024 08:42 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).