Diwali is celebrated across the world with great enthusiasm and fervor, but the day prior to Diwali is no less significant and has a great mythological significance to it. Popularly known as Chhoti Diwali, which typically falls a day after Dhanteras and prior to Lakshmi Puja and Diwali celebrations, the day is also celebrated as Narak Chaturdashi. Also known as Bhoot Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas, Narak Chaudas, Roop Chaudas, and Naraka Nivaran Chaturdash. As per the religious texts, demon Narakasura was killed on this day by Krishna and Satyabhama.
In South Indian states like Tamil Nadu, the day is celebrated as Tamil Deepavali and is considered the most important day during Diwali celebrations.
It is believed that Lord Krishna took an oil bath after killing demon Narakasura during Brahma Muhurat on Narak Chaturdashi. This is the reason, it's customary to take the ritualistic oil bath before the sunrise on this day.
Narak Chaturdashi is observed on Chaturdashi tithi or 14th day of lunar month, during Krishna Paksha of Kartik month as per Hindu Calendar.
When is Narak Chaturdashi, Chhoti Diwali, and Tamil Deepavali in USA?
Narak Chaturdashi will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 in USA.
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Date, Pooja Timings, and Shubh Muhurat across different USA Time Zones (ET, CT, MT, PT)