Kali Chaudas
GujaratiAlso known as: Naraka Chaturdashi, Roop Chaudas, Chhoti Diwali
Kali Chaudas
About Kali Chaudas
Kali Chaudas, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is observed on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in Kartak, the day before Diwali. It commemorates Lord Krishna victory over the demon Narakasura.
In Gujarat, the day begins before dawn with an oil bath using ubtan made from sesame oil, turmeric, and sandalwood paste, symbolising purification. People wear new clothes and light diyas.
Special preparations include cleaning homes, drawing intricate rangoli, and preparing sweets. The evening is spent in puja to Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna with flowers, sweets, and incense.
Kali Chaudas represents the triumph of good over evil and the removal of negative energies, making it an auspicious precursor to the Diwali celebrations.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
A partial fast is observed, eating only one meal before noon.
- Wake before dawn and apply ubtan on the body.
- Take a ritual oil bath before sunrise.
- Wear new clothes and light diyas.
- Perform puja to Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The fast is broken after the morning puja and ritual bath.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Wake before dawn and apply ubtan paste.
- Take a bath and wear new clothes.
- Set up the puja altar with Kali or Krishna image.
- Offer flowers, sweets, and light diyas and incense.
- Chant mantras for protection from evil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Kali Chaudas commemorates Krishna defeat of Narakasura. Diwali celebrates Lord Rama return to Ayodhya and the victory of light over darkness.
An abhyanga snan with ubtan made from sesame oil, turmeric, and sandalwood paste is taken before sunrise to purify the body.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.