Naraka Chaturdashi 2016: Choti Diwali Abhyang Snan timings, Tithi and Vidhi

Mumbai: The second day of Diwali or Deepavali is known as Naraka Chaturdashi or commonly referred to as Choti Diwali. This year, the auspicious day will be celebrated on October 29.

Naraka Chaturdashi falls on the fourteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin according to Hindu calendar. On this day, people in South India celebrate Deepavali wile North India commemorates the festival of lights on the following day. People in the eastern part of India celebrate Kali Puja on this day.

This day is dedicated to Goddess Kali for annihilating demon Narakasura and hence the auspicious day is also known as Naraka Chaturdashi.

Traditionally, people do Abhyang Snan, a ritual of bathing with ubtan (natural bathing powder made of pulses and gram flour) after applying sesame oil on the body to get rid of toxins.

Abhyang Snan Timings

According to Drikpanchang.com, the mihurta starts at 5:00 AM and shall last till to 06:14 AM on October 29.

Naraka Chaturdashi Tithi

The Tithi differs from the Gregorian calendar. The Chaturdashi Tithi began at about 6:20 PM on October 28 and shall continue till 8:40PM on October 29.

Naraka Chaturdashi Vidhi

After taking the ritualistic shower to ward off evil and negativity, people wear new clothes, worship Goddess Lakshmi and the other Gods, have sweets and delicacies and burst crackers.

It is believed that by worshipping to he might forces on this day, one can prevent evil and negativity in life. It symbolizes the rejection of Naraka (hell) by embracing goodness.