Patna: Narak Chaturdashi, widely known as Chhoti Diwali, Roop Chaudas, or Chhoti Deepawali, is observed annually on the Chaturdashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik. The festival precedes Diwali by a day and holds deep spiritual and cultural significance across India.
This year, Chhoti Diwali will be celebrated on Sunday, October 19. The day is marked by the worship of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, and in many regions, the lighting of a lamp in honour of Lord Yama, the god of death, after sunset. In some households, the Yama Deepam ritual is performed a day earlier, on Dhanteras.
Number and Placement of Lamps
On Narak Chaturdashi, devotees traditionally light 14 lamps, along with one additional lamp dedicated to Lord Yama. These are placed in various parts of the home, including the prayer room, kitchen, near the Tulsi plant, main entrance, terrace, bathroom, and water sources. The practice is believed to dispel negativity, invite positive energy, and bring happiness and prosperity to the household.
Direction for the Yama Deepam
The Yama Deep should be lit with reverence and carried around the home before being placed on the southern side of the house, which is associated with Lord Yama. According to tradition, this act protects family members from untimely death and ensures the god’s blessings for a long and peaceful life.
Choice of Oil or Ghee
While mustard oil is preferred for the lamps lit on Chhoti Diwali and for the Yama Deepam, ghee is recommended for lamps placed in the home temple. This distinction is rooted in traditional belief systems that associate mustard oil with warding off evil and ghee with divine purity.
Auspicious Timing for Deep Daan
The auspicious period for Deep Daan (lamp donation) on Narak Chaturdashi in 2025 will be from 5:47 pm to 6:13 pm, with an extended window lasting until 7:03 pm. Performing the ritual during this time is said to enhance its spiritual benefits.
Mantra for Lighting the Yama Deep
While lighting the lamp dedicated to Lord Yama, devotees are encouraged to chant the following mantra for blessings and protection:
“Mrityuna Paashdandabhyaam Kalen Shyamaya Saha,
Trayodashi Deepadaanat Suryajah Priyataam Mam.”
This verse is believed to invoke the son of the Sun God—Yama—for safeguarding one’s family and ensuring peace and prosperity.
