Naraka Chaturdashi Significance & Spiritual Meaning
Naraka Chaturdashi falls on Krishna Chaturdashi before Diwali Amavasya. It celebrates the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna (and in some traditions Satyabhama). Many families take an oil bath before sunrise, light lamps, and prepare for the main Diwali night.
Naraka Chaturdashi Mythology & Legend
The Bhagavata Purana and other texts narrate that Narakasura had become tyrannical; Krishna destroyed him and freed captives. The day is also associated with cleansing and victory of light over inner and outer darkness.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2026 Puja Rituals & Vidhi
- Early-morning oil bath (before sunrise) in many regions.
- Light diyas and lamps; some households perform small homa or puja.
- Prepare sweets and clean the home for Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya.
- In Maharashtra and elsewhere, bitter leaves (e.g. neem) may be consumed for health symbolism.
Naraka Chaturdashi Mantras in Sanskrit
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
oṃ namo bhagavate vāsudevāya
Salutations to Vasudeva (Krishna)
Naraka Chaturdashi Traditional Foods & Prasad
- ●Sweets
- ●Savouries
- ●Light breakfast after abhyanga snan
Naraka Chaturdashi Regional Celebrations across India
South India(தீபாவளி முன்னோன்)
Oil bath, lamps
Maharashtra(चोटी दिवाळी)
Kali Chaudas, lamps
Naraka Chaturdashi Do's & Don't's
Do's
- ✓Take oil bath if observing the tradition
- ✓Light lamps
- ✓Prepare for Diwali
Don'ts
- ✗Avoid skipping safety with lamps and oil
- ✗Do not quarrel on sacred days
Naraka Chaturdashi — Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Naraka Chaturdashi?
- Naraka Chaturdashi falls on Krishna Chaturdashi before Diwali Amavasya.
- When is Naraka Chaturdashi 2026?
- In 2026, Naraka Chaturdashi falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026.
- What are the Naraka Chaturdashi puja rituals?
- Early-morning oil bath (before sunrise) in many regions.; Light diyas and lamps; some households perform small homa or puja.; Prepare sweets and clean the home for Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya.; In Maharashtra and elsewhere, bitter leaves (e.g. neem) may be consumed for health symbolism.
- What to eat on Naraka Chaturdashi?
- Sweets, Savouries, Light breakfast after abhyanga snan
- What should you do on Naraka Chaturdashi?
- Take oil bath if observing the tradition; Light lamps; Prepare for Diwali
- What should you avoid on Naraka Chaturdashi?
- Avoid skipping safety with lamps and oil; Do not quarrel on sacred days
- Which deity is worshipped on Naraka Chaturdashi?
- Naraka Chaturdashi is dedicated to Krishna.
Upcoming Naraka Chaturdashi Dates in 2026, 2027 & Beyond
Naraka Chaturdashi is a sacred Hindu festival observed on the tithi shown. Dates are calculated from the Panchang for your region.
Times shown for New Delhi, India (IST)
| Date | Day | Moonrise Time | Special Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Nov 2026 | Sunday | 05:36 am | — |
| 28 Oct 2027 | Thursday | 05:01 am | — |