Narak Chaturdashi
Also known as: Deepavali (South India), Naraka Chaturdashi, Choti Diwali, Kali Chaudas, Roop Chaudas
Dates follow the Indian calendar (IST). If you’re outside India, your local temple may observe a day earlier or later for tithi-based festivals.
Narak Chaturdashi remembers Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura — the defeat of darkness within and without. Across South India — Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala — this is the main Deepavali day itself: families rise before dawn for the festive oil bath (abhyanga snan), wear new clothes, and light the morning's first fireworks. North India treats the day as the eve of Lakshmi Puja and calls it Choti Diwali; in 2026 both fall on the same day, with Kali Chaudas observed the evening before, on 7 November.
For your location
Diwali Week at a glance
The five-day Diwali sequence — useful for planning travel and leave across the whole week, not just the main night.
| Date | Weekday | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | Dhanteras | |
| Sunday | Narak ChaturdashiYou are here | |
| Sunday | Diwali | |
| Tuesday | Govardhan Puja | |
| Wednesday | Bhai Dooj |
Timing Advisory
This festival follows sunrise timings. Local observance may differ by region and timezone. Please check with your local temple or trusted Panchang for exact muhurat.
📋 How to Observe
- 1
Take the oil bath before sunrise (abhyanga snan) — the heart of the South Indian Deepavali morning
- 2
Wear new clothes and, in the southern tradition, light the first crackers at dawn
- 3
Light diyas around the home in the evening
- 4
Clear out clutter — outer and inner — and prepare for Lakshmi Puja tonight
🕉️ Sacred Mantras
ॐ कृष्णाय नमः
Meaning: Salutations to Krishna, destroyer of darkness
Pandit ji's Message
Dear devotee, Narak Chaturdashi is a time for spiritual reflection and community celebration. Whether you're observing traditional rituals or adapting them to your modern life, remember that the sincerity of your devotion matters more than elaborate ceremonies. May this festival bring divine blessings to you and your family.
🙏 - Pandit Bala Krishan
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