This year, Choti Diwali falls on November 13 and Diwali on the 14th. Choti Diwali is the second day of the Diwali festival which lasts for five days. It is celebrated one day before Diwali. However, this year the dates of Choti Diwali and Diwali coincide. The auspicious time of Abhyanga Snan on Choti Diwali occurs from 5:23 am to 6:43 am.
Meaning of Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali is also known as Roop Chaudas, Naraka Nivaran Chaturdashi, or Bhoot Chaturdashi. According to Hindu literature, on this day Krishna, Satyabhama and Kali killed the asura (demon) Narakasura. The day is observed by early morning religious rituals and festivities follow.
Rituals related to Choti Diwali
The celebration of Choti Diwali varies according to different regions. As part of the Choti Diwali ritual, puja will be performed with oil, flowers, and sandalwood. Coconuts will also be offered to Lord Hanuman and Prasada made from sesame seeds, brown sugar and rice flakes (poha) with ghee and sugar.
Choti Diwali rituals are a symbol of the origin of Diwali when a harvest festival takes place. On this day, sweets will be prepared from crushed semi-cooked rice. The rice used to prepare the dish will be from the fresh harvest available at that time. This custom is common in both rural and urban areas of western India.
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