Choti Diwali 2017: Know Naraka Chaturdashi puja vidhi, muhurat and auspicious timings

Choti Diwali also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas and Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi is celebrated on October 18, 2017, a day after Dhanteras. It is believed that who perform abhyang snan or take the holy bath on this day, they avoid going to hell. Also,  during the holy bath Til or sesame oil is used and is also known as Roop Chaturdashi. 

This is a Hindu festival which falls on the second day of Diwali. Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated with lot of zeal and enthusiasm. Naraka Chaturdashi has great significance people simply believe that who performs this ritual can avoid going to Narak (Hell). It falls on the next day of Dhanteras. 

Devotees worship Mahakali or Goddess Shakti whole day long. According to mythology, Goddess Kali defeated and killed Narakasura. This is also considered as the victory of good over evil. Choti Diwali is an important day during the Diwali festival and for all Hindus.

Significance The day before main Diwali is celebrated as 'Choti Diwali' or 'Small Diwali' or 'Naraka Chaturdashi'. People celebrate this day with fewer lights and fewer crackers. According to mythology, a powerful demon, asura named Narakasura was killed on this day by Krishna, Satyabhama and Kali. It is also known as Kali Chaudas, Roop Chaudas, Choti Diwali or Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi.

Muhurat timings:

Abhyang Snan Muhurta — 4:47 am to 6:27 am

Duration — 1 hour 40 minutes

Chaturdashi Tithi Begins — 00:08 am (midnight) on October 18

Chaturdashi Tithi Ends — 00:13 am (midnight) on October 19