Choti Diwali 2026: Why Is Narak Chaturdashi Celebrated? Know the Story of Lord Krishna and Narakasura

Choti Diwali, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, is celebrated one day before the main festival of Diwali. The festival has a special place in Hindu tradition and is associated with the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, this day marks the defeat of the demon king Narakasura by Lord Krishna and the liberation of thousands of women who had been held captive by him.

Narak Chaturdashi is observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. People celebrate the occasion by lighting diyas, cleaning their homes and preparing for the main Diwali celebrations.

The Story Behind Choti Diwali: Who Was Narakasura?

According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura was a powerful demon king who ruled over Pragjyotishpur, an ancient kingdom traditionally associated with present-day Assam.

Narakasura was believed to be the son of Bhudevi, the goddess of the Earth, and Lord Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Although he was born with divine connections, he gradually became arrogant because of his growing power.

He started troubling the gods, capturing kingdoms and creating fear among people. His cruelty increased when he imprisoned 16,100 women in his palace. He also stole the precious earrings of Aditi, the mother of the gods.

His actions created fear in both heaven and the human world. The gods eventually approached Lord Krishna and requested him to end Narakasura’s rule.

How Did Lord Krishna and Satyabhama Defeat Narakasura?

When Lord Krishna learned about Narakasura’s cruelty, he decided to put an end to his reign. His wife Satyabhama also accompanied him to fight the demon king.

According to the popular legend, Lord Krishna travelled to Narakasura’s kingdom on his divine vehicle Garuda, with Satyabhama by his side.

A fierce battle began between Krishna and Narakasura. The demon king had a powerful army and strong defences, but Krishna gradually defeated his forces. He also killed Narakasura’s commander, Mura, which earned him the name Murari.

During the battle, Narakasura attacked Krishna with great force. At one point, Krishna pretended to become unconscious. Seeing this, Satyabhama became furious and shot an arrow at Narakasura, fatally wounding him.

There is another important belief behind Satyabhama’s role in the battle. Narakasura had received a boon that he could only be killed by his mother, Bhudevi. Since Satyabhama is considered an incarnation of Bhudevi in this legend, his death at her hands fulfilled the prophecy.

With Narakasura’s death, his reign of terror came to an end.

16,100 Women Were Freed From Captivity

After defeating Narakasura, Lord Krishna freed the 16,100 women who had been imprisoned in his palace. He also recovered the earrings stolen from Aditi and restored them to her.

The victory brought relief to the people and the gods who had suffered under Narakasura’s rule.

According to a popular tradition, Narakasura requested that the day of his death be remembered as a day of celebration rather than sorrow. Lord Krishna granted his wish.

Why Do People Light Diyas on Choti Diwali?

The victory over Narakasura is traditionally associated with the celebration of Narak Chaturdashi. The lighting of diyas represents the end of darkness and the arrival of light, happiness and hope.

On this day, families light earthen lamps outside their homes, decorate entrances and prepare for Diwali. In many parts of India, people also follow the tradition of Abhyanga Snan, an early morning ritual bath using oil and traditional bathing preparations.

The festival is also known as Roop Chaudas in some regions, where special importance is given to cleanliness and personal care.

Choti Diwali 2026: Date and Significance

In 2026, Choti Diwali will be observed on November 8, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The exact timing of rituals, including the traditional morning bath, depends on the local Panchang and location.

Narak Chaturdashi reminds people that arrogance, cruelty and misuse of power cannot last forever. The story of Narakasura also highlights the role of Satyabhama, whose courage became an important part of this victory.

As families light diyas and prepare for Diwali, Choti Diwali brings a message of hope, freedom and the victory of good over evil.

Read in Hindi: छोटी दिवाली 2026: क्यों मनाई जाती है नरक चतुर्दशी?