Narak Chaturdashi, which is also known as Choti Diwali, is celebrated in India one day before Diwali. Due to variations in the lunar calendar, this year, Narak Chaturdashi and Diwali fall on the same day, which is on the 12th of November 2023. On this day, people traditionally start their morning with an oil bath and apply a special herbal paste to enhance their appearance, especially women. In the evening, there is a custom of lighting lamps as an offering to Lord Yama, the God of Death.


Narak Chaturdashi Date And Timings:



  • Narak Chaturdashi 2023 Muhurat (Narak Chaturdashi 2023 Timings)

  • Abhyang Snan Muhurat - Morning: 05:28 - 06:41 AM (November 12, 2023)

  • Deepdan Timing - Evening: 05:29 - 08:07 PM (Deepdan is performed during Pradosh Kaal)


Why is Narak Chaturdashi Celebrated? 


Narak Chaturdashi is associated with the legend of Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura. According to ancient legends, Narakasura, an asura (demon) king of Pragjyotishpur, had imprisoned 16,000 beautiful maidens using his powers. Narakasura had a curse that he would be killed by a woman's hands. To rescue these maidens and vanquish Narakasura, Lord Krishna, with the assistance of his wife Satyabhama, killed the demon on the Chaturdashi day of Kartik month, liberating the captive women.


These maidens, having been saved from the demon's captivity, were socially ostracized and chose Lord Krishna as their protector and husband, accepting him as their beloved. Lord Krishna married all of them. The victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura and the liberation of the maidens are celebrated on Narak Chaturdashi.


Narak Chaturdashi Rituals:


Narak Chaturdashi is observed with a morning ritual of applying oil and a herbal paste to the body, symbolizing the cleansing of impurities. Applying ubtan, a specially prepared herbal paste, is a part of the tradition. People also bathe before sunrise, use leaves of the Chirchita plant, and have darshan (viewing or worship) of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. It is believed that these customs help in purifying the body and removing sins while enhancing one's beauty and granting longevity.


On this day, a ritual of anointing oneself with oil is performed in the morning, and women enhance their beauty by applying a paste made of herbs. In the evening, there is a tradition of lighting lamps for Lord Yama, the god of death. 


Narak Chaturdashi Astrological Predictions: Tarot Reading:


Tarot Mentor Dr. Madhu Kotiya lists down what each zodiac sign should keep in mind during Choti Diwali:


As the soft glow of diyas begins to warm the threshold of homes, Choti Diwali brings with it a promise of enlightenment, urging us to seek the wisdom within. This is a time when the veil between foresight and the present thins, offering an opportune moment for reflection and guidance. To enhance this spiritual journey, we turn to the ancient wisdom of tarot, a mirror to the subconscious, to shed light on the path each zodiac sign might consider during this luminous celebration.


Aries (March 21 - April 19): The Chariot Brave Aries, Choti Diwali invites you to harness the energy of The Chariot. Focus on maintaining balance amidst the festivities. Channel your drive and determination, but also steer your energy wisely to avoid burnout. This is a time to celebrate your victories but also to prepare for the journeys ahead. Keep your will aligned with your spiritual growth.


Taurus (April 20 - May 20): The Hierophant Grounded Taurus, on Choti Diwali, The Hierophant calls you to embrace tradition and shared rituals. This card signifies guidance and wisdom passed through generations. Open your heart to the lessons your elders and customs have to offer. Let this day solidify your values and beliefs, reinforcing your spiritual foundation.


Gemini (May 21 - June 20): The Lovers Curious Gemini, The Lovers encourage you to make choices that resonate with your highest self. Relationships and connections will be at the forefront this Choti Diwali. Reflect on your partnerships, and seek harmony and understanding in your interactions. Celebrate the dualities within you and around you, creating balance.


Cancer (June 21 - July 22): The Moon Intuitive Cancer, The Moon shines its light on your internal compass this Choti Diwali. Pay attention to your dreams and intuition. There may be uncertainties or hidden truths that you're urged to explore. Acknowledge your fears but don't let them overshadow the warmth and joy of the festival.


Leo (July 23 - August 22): Strength Radiant Leo, the Strength card is your guide for Choti Diwali, reminding you that true power lies in gentleness and self-control. Display compassion and patience, with yourself and others. It's a day to tame the ego and let your inner light shine with humility.


Virgo (August 23 - September 22): The Hermit Analytical Virgo, The Hermit encourages you to seek wisdom within. Use the quiet moments this Choti Diwali to contemplate and meditate. It's a time for spiritual enlightenment, not just outer celebration. Listen to the still, small voice that speaks when you are alone.


Libra (September 23 - October 22): Justice Harmonious Libra, Justice represents your Choti Diwali focus. It's a call to balance your spiritual and material pursuits. Reflect on your deeds and their repercussions. Strive for fairness in all your interactions, and remember, the universe maintains balance, as should you.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21): Death Transformative Scorpio, don't be daunted by the Death card—it heralds a time of transformation this Choti Diwali. Welcome transformation, release the past, and open the door to fresh starts.. Celebrate this festival by shedding past grievances and emerging renewed.


Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21): Temperance Adventurous Sagittarius, Temperance is your guide during Choti Diwali, urging moderation and self-restraint. Blend your zest for life with a composed spirit. It’s a time to mix the spirited festivities with moments of inner calm and reflection, finding your perfect balance.


Capricorn (December 22 - January 19): The Devil Ambitious Capricorn, The Devil card advises awareness of the material ties that bind you. Choti Diwali should be a time to reassess what you're chained to by choice or by habit. It's a moment to liberate yourself from self-imposed bonds and to celebrate with a spirit free from unnecessary attachments.


Aquarius (January 20 - February 18): The Star Innovative Aquarius, The Star is your beacon this Choti Diwali, filled with hope and inspiration. It's a time to look towards the future with optimism and to set intentions that align with your true purpose. Share your light with others, and let the festive glow remind you of the collective human spirit.


Pisces (February 19 - March 20): The Hanged Man Compassionate Pisces, The Hanged Man suggests a period of willing sacrifice and letting go. On Choti Diwali, seek perspectives that are not immediately apparent. Sometimes, pausing and reflecting leads to the most profound insights and spiritual growth.


As the diyas flicker this Choti Diwali, may the wisdom of the tarot cards illuminate the path for each zodiac sign, guiding your way through the festival of lights. Remember, the journey within is as significant as the external festivities. Let the cards' archetypes be your mentors, and the stars guide you toward inner peace and outer joy.