Just when the excitement of Diwali is about to reach its peak, Chhoti Diwali quietly arrives — like a soft whisper before the grand symphony. It’s the calm before the festive storm, the day when homes sparkle, sweets simmer in the kitchen, and everyone double-checks if they still fit into last year’s ethnic outfit (spoiler: they rarely do).
Chhoti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated a day before the main Diwali festival. This year, Chhoti Diwali falls on Sunday, October 19, 2025, and it beautifully sets the stage for the big day of lights, joy, and endless laddoos.
🌅 The Story Behind Chhoti Diwali: When Good Conquered Evil
Every Indian festival has a story that mixes divine drama with deep meaning — and Chhoti Diwali is no exception. According to Hindu mythology, the day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who had captured 16,000 women and spread darkness across the world. Krishna defeated him and restored peace and light — hence, we celebrate this day as a symbol of victory of light over darkness, and good over evil.
Different regions call it by different names — Kali Chaudas in Gujarat, Roop Chaudas in North India, and Naraka Chaturdashi in the South. But the essence remains the same: cleansing negativity and welcoming positivity.
And honestly, in today’s world, we can all use a little less “Narak” (chaos) and a little more “Chaturdashi” (peace, beauty, and sweets).
🪔 Rituals and Traditions That Light Up the Day
The day begins with an early morning ritual bath, known as Abhyang Snan. People apply aromatic oils and herbal ubtan before sunrise — it’s like the OG version of a spa day, minus the fancy candles and Instagram reels.
After the ritual bath, homes are cleaned and decorated with diyas and rangolis. Families prepare sweets like shankarpali, laddoos, and chaklis, and exchange gifts with loved ones. In the evening, diyas are lit in every corner of the house to ward off evil and invite prosperity.
Neighbors often compare rangolis, kids sneak extra sweets, and everyone enjoys the peaceful glow before the main Diwali celebration. It’s that perfect warm-up act — less noise, more nostalgia.
💫 Chhoti Diwali in Modern Times: Old Traditions, New Twists
In today’s fast-paced world, Chhoti Diwali has found a modern rhythm. Families are embracing eco-friendly diyas, LED lights, and even digital rangoli apps (yes, those exist!).
Urban India celebrates with a mix of tradition and technology — people post festive selfies, host virtual pujas with relatives abroad, and exchange e-gift cards instead of mithai boxes. And of course, every home has that one overenthusiastic uncle who insists on sending “Happy Chhoti Diwali” messages to 57 WhatsApp groups before 6 a.m.
Even brands have joined in — offering “Chhoti Diwali Discounts” and “Pre-Diwali Flash Sales.” Let’s be honest, it’s the only time of year when we feel spiritual and economical at the same time.
📅 Chhoti Diwali 2025: Date, Time & Muhurat
- Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025
- Naraka Chaturdashi Muhurat: 04:30 AM – 06:45 AM (tentative; check local calendar for exact time)
- Abhyang Snan Muhurat: Early morning before sunrise
Performing rituals during the right muhurat is believed to invite good luck and remove negativity. But even if you miss it by a few minutes, don’t worry — the real essence lies in the sincerity of your prayers (and maybe the crispiness of your chakli).
🛍️ What to Buy and Do on Chhoti Diwali
Traditionally, Chhoti Diwali is considered an auspicious day to buy diyas, lamps, and home decor items. Some also purchase gold or silver coins as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
If you want to celebrate with a modern twist, here’s your mini checklist:
✅ Clean and declutter your home.
✅ Light diyas in every room — even the kitchen deserves some sparkle.
✅ Take an oil bath and pamper yourself (Roop Chaudas style).
✅ Offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Yama (the God of Death) for protection and blessings.
✅ Spread joy — share sweets, kindness, and that extra box of soan papdi nobody wants to take.
🌼 The Deeper Meaning: Lighting Up Within
Beyond the rituals and decorations, Chhoti Diwali carries a timeless message — the need to conquer the darkness within us. It reminds us to let go of resentment, jealousy, or overthinking (yes, even that text you’re still waiting for).
It’s about starting fresh — with a clear heart, bright mind, and a diya of hope. Just as Krishna defeated Narakasura, we too can overcome our inner fears and negativity.
In short, Chhoti Diwali teaches us this: before you light up your home, light up your soul.
🌟 Conclusion: From One Flame to a Million
As the first diyas of Chhoti Diwali glow across homes and balconies, they carry a simple message — even a small flame can banish great darkness.
So, this year, celebrate Chhoti Diwali 2025 not just with lights and sweets, but with gratitude, laughter, and love. Tag your friends who bring light into your life and share your celebration moments with the hashtag #LightBeforeTheLights — because this festival isn’t just about shining; it’s about spreading the shine.
Here’s to a bright, blissful, and beautiful Chhoti Diwali! 🪔✨