Narak Chaturdashi 2026: Abhyanga Snan Muhurat, Chhoti Diwali Rituals, Astrology and Vastu Significance

By Richa Pathak, Astrologer & Vastu Expert, Jyotish Dham, Chandivali, Powai, Mumbai

Sunday, 8 November 2026 | Krishna Chaturdashi, Kartik

Most people consider Chhoti Diwali a smaller celebration before the main Diwali festival. But Narak Chaturdashi has a deeper spiritual and astrological meaning. It is the day associated with cleansing, removing negativity, honouring tradition and preparing the home for the arrival of prosperity.

In Maharashtra, the morning begins before sunrise with Abhyanga Snan, a traditional oil bath followed by an herbal ubtan. In many households, a bitter fruit called Karit is crushed underfoot to symbolise Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura.

What makes 2026 particularly interesting is that Narak Chaturdashi and Lakshmi Puja fall on the same Sunday, 8 November. The morning belongs to Chaturdashi, while Amavasya begins later in the day, making the evening important for Lakshmi worship.

From an astrological perspective, Chaturdashi is a Rikta Tithi, traditionally associated with removal and completion rather than new beginnings. This gives the day a meaningful purpose: before inviting prosperity into your home, create space by removing what is no longer needed.

Here is a detailed guide to Narak Chaturdashi 2026, including its date, Abhyanga Snan Muhurat, religious significance, astrology, traditional remedies and Vastu recommendations.

1. When Is Narak Chaturdashi 2026? Date and Panchang Details

Narak Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, Kali Chaudas and Roop Chaudas in different regions, will be observed on Sunday, 8 November 2026.

It falls on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi, the fourteenth lunar day of the Kartik month.

This year, Chaturdashi and Amavasya occur on the same calendar date. Chaturdashi prevails during the early morning, making Sunday the appropriate day for the traditional pre-dawn Abhyanga Snan.

Narak Chaturdashi 2026 Panchang

Panchang detail	Information
Festival	Narak Chaturdashi / Chhoti Diwali
Date	Sunday, 8 November 2026
Tithi	Krishna Chaturdashi
Chaturdashi begins	10:47 AM, 7 November
Chaturdashi ends	11:27 AM, 8 November
Amavasya begins	11:27 AM, 8 November
Weekday	Sunday
Ruling planet	Sun (Surya)
Associated deities	Lord Krishna, Goddess Kali and Lord Yama
Main ritual	Abhyanga Snan
Evening observance	Lakshmi Puja
Location reference	Mumbai, Maharashtra

The tithi timings above are based on the Mumbai Panchang. The tithi is the same across locations, although sunrise, moonrise and ritual timings vary by city.

2. Abhyanga Snan Muhurat 2026: What Is the Correct Bathing Time?

One of the most important rituals of Narak Chaturdashi is Abhyanga Snan.

Unlike an ordinary morning bath, Abhyanga Snan is performed before sunrise, traditionally during the period associated with moonrise and Arunodaya.

It involves applying oil to the body, using a traditional herbal ubtan and bathing before the sun rises.

Abhyanga Snan Muhurat for Mumbai

Sunday, 8 November 2026

Important event	Mumbai timing
Abhyanga Snan begins	5:45 AM
Sunrise	6:42 AM
Chaturdashi ends	11:27 AM
Amavasya begins	11:27 AM

The traditional Abhyanga Snan is performed before sunrise while Chaturdashi is prevailing.

Why is Abhyanga Snan performed before sunrise?

In Hindu tradition, bathing during the pre-dawn period on Narak Chaturdashi is considered spiritually purifying.

The ritual is associated with removing physical impurities, negative thoughts and past burdens.

It is also traditionally believed that the bath protects a person from Naraka, or the suffering associated with the afterlife.

The deeper message is about beginning a new phase with cleanliness, discipline and positive intention.

Important: Abhyanga Snan timings are location-specific. For Nashik, the corresponding window is approximately 5:42 AM to 6:40 AM. Residents of other cities should follow their local Panchang.

3. Why Is Narak Chaturdashi Called Chhoti Diwali?

Narak Chaturdashi is popularly called Chhoti Diwali because it traditionally falls immediately before the main Diwali celebration.

However, the word Chhoti should not be interpreted as meaning that the festival has less spiritual significance.

The day commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura, a powerful demon who had created fear and suffering.

According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura had imprisoned thousands of women and troubled the Devas.

Lord Krishna, accompanied by his wife Satyabhama, fought against Narakasura and defeated him.

Before his death, Narakasura is traditionally said to have requested that his defeat be celebrated with light and happiness rather than sorrow.

This victory became associated with Narak Chaturdashi.

What does the story of Narakasura teach us?

The story carries an important spiritual message.

Narakasura represents arrogance, uncontrolled desires, ego and destructive tendencies.

Lord Krishna's victory symbolises the power of righteousness and wisdom over negative forces.

When we celebrate Narak Chaturdashi, we can reflect on the following questions:

• Am I holding on to unnecessary anger?
• Have I allowed ego to affect my relationships?
• Am I carrying emotional burdens from the past?
• What habits should I leave behind?
• What changes can bring peace into my home?

This is why I believe Narak Chaturdashi is more than a festival of lights. It is also a reminder to work on ourselves.

4. Why Is Chaturdashi Called Rikta Tithi in Astrology?

One of the most interesting aspects of Narak Chaturdashi is its connection with Rikta Tithi.

In traditional Muhurta Shastra, the thirty lunar tithis are classified into five groups.

Tithi category	Tithis	Traditional meaning
Nanda	1, 6, 11	Happiness and fulfilment
Bhadra	2, 7, 12	Stability and nourishment
Jaya	3, 8, 13	Victory and success
Rikta	4, 9, 14	Emptiness and removal
Purna	5, 10, 15	Completion and fullness

Chaturdashi belongs to the Rikta category.

The word Rikta means empty or unfilled.

Traditional Muhurta principles generally advise against beginning certain new and auspicious activities during Rikta Tithis. Instead, they are symbolically associated with removing obstacles, clearing unwanted things and completing pending work.

This is where the spiritual significance of Narak Chaturdashi becomes interesting.

Consider the sequence of the Diwali festivals:

• Dhanteras (Trayodashi): Traditionally associated with acquiring wealth and welcoming prosperity.
• Narak Chaturdashi (Chaturdashi): Associated with cleansing and removing unwanted elements.
• Diwali (Amavasya): Associated with Lakshmi worship and welcoming prosperity and auspiciousness.

The sequence can be understood as:

Acquire, Release and Renew.

Many families focus on buying new things during Diwali. But the traditional meaning of Chaturdashi reminds us that we must also learn to let go.

5. Lord Shiva and Rudra: The Astrological Significance of Chaturdashi

Chaturdashi is traditionally associated with Lord Shiva in his Rudra form.

Rudra represents transformation, dissolution and the removal of what has completed its purpose.

In Hindu philosophy, destruction does not always represent something negative. Sometimes, removing something is necessary for a new beginning.

For example:

• Removing negative habits creates space for discipline.
• Ending unnecessary conflicts creates space for relationships.
• Clearing unwanted possessions creates space for a better living environment.
• Releasing past resentment creates space for emotional peace.

This is why Chaturdashi can be understood as a day for inner and outer purification.

As an astrologer, I encourage people to use this day to reflect on what needs to end before they welcome a new phase into their lives.

6. Abhyanga Snan Ritual: Why Are Oil and Herbal Ubtan Used?

In Maharashtra, Abhyanga Snan is one of the most cherished Narak Chaturdashi traditions.

The ritual usually begins before sunrise.

A family member applies warm oil to the body, followed by an ubtan made from traditional ingredients such as besan, turmeric and other locally used herbs.

The person then takes a bath using warm water.

Why is sesame oil traditionally used?

Sesame oil has an important place in Hindu religious traditions.

In Jyotish, sesame oil is traditionally associated with Saturn (Shani).

Saturn represents discipline, patience, responsibility, karma and endurance.

The use of sesame oil in traditional rituals is therefore sometimes interpreted through Saturn's symbolism of discipline and purification.

It is important to understand that this is a traditional astrological association, not a medical claim.

Why is ubtan used?

Ubtan is traditionally prepared using ingredients such as:

• Besan (gram flour).
• Haldi (turmeric).
• Sandalwood powder.
• Other traditional herbal ingredients, depending on family customs.

It represents cleansing, freshness and preparation for an auspicious day.

The ritual also reflects the traditional importance of personal hygiene and self-care.

People with skin sensitivities should use suitable ingredients and avoid anything that causes irritation.

7. The Maharashtra Tradition: Karit Fruit and Apamarga Ritual

One of the distinctive traditions of Narak Chaturdashi in Maharashtra is the use of Karit, a small bitter fruit.

In many Marathi households, the fruit is crushed underfoot on the morning of Narak Chaturdashi.

This act symbolises the defeat of Narakasura by Lord Krishna and Satyabhama.

The bitterness of the fruit is also interpreted symbolically as the destruction of negative tendencies.

What is the significance of Apamarga?

Some families also use an Apamarga twig during the traditional ritual.

Apamarga is a plant recognised in Indian traditional practices. In certain regional customs, its twig is moved around the body as part of a symbolic purification ritual.

The practice is associated with removing negativity and protecting the household.

These customs vary from family to family. There is no need to force a ritual if it is not part of your family's tradition.

8. Why Do Some Families Light 14 Diyas on Narak Chaturdashi?

Lighting lamps is an important part of Diwali celebrations, but Narak Chaturdashi has some distinctive regional practices.

In Bengal, the day is observed as Bhoot Chaturdashi.

Traditionally, families light fourteen lamps, known as Choddo Prodeep, and prepare fourteen types of leafy vegetables, known as Choddo Shaak.

These customs are associated with remembering ancestors and honouring the fourteen generations in certain regional beliefs.

The lamps are also traditionally believed to guide and protect the family.

What is the significance of 14 lamps?

The number fourteen is associated with Chaturdashi, the fourteenth lunar day.

In some traditions, the lamps are placed in different parts of the home to symbolically remove darkness.

The custom reminds us of the importance of remembering our ancestors and expressing gratitude for the generations that came before us.

However, not every family follows the same ritual. In Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bengal and other regions, Narak Chaturdashi customs can differ considerably.

9. Kali Chaudas 2026: Why Is Goddess Kali Worshipped?

In Gujarat and some other regions, Narak Chaturdashi is observed as Kali Chaudas.

The festival is associated with Goddess Kali, who represents the destruction of evil, protection and divine power.

Kali is worshipped as a powerful form of Shakti.

Her symbolism reminds devotees that fear, ego and destructive tendencies must be confronted rather than allowed to control life.

What should devotees do on Kali Chaudas?

Depending on regional and family traditions, devotees may:

• Offer prayers to Goddess Kali.
• Light traditional oil lamps.
• Recite devotional prayers.
• Practise meditation and spiritual discipline.
• Donate food to those in need.
• Remember ancestors and seek their blessings.

I would like to make one point clear as an astrologer: Narak Chaturdashi should not become a day of fear.

Some people associate Kali Chaudas with mysterious rituals, black magic and frightening remedies. There is no need to participate in practices that create fear or encourage exploitation.

True spiritual practices should encourage discipline, compassion and positive thinking.

10. Vastu Tips for Narak Chaturdashi: Clean Your Home Before Diwali

From a Vastu perspective, Narak Chaturdashi is a meaningful day to clear unwanted objects and organise your home.

The principle of Rikta Tithi offers a symbolic reminder to remove things that no longer serve a purpose.

Before the evening Lakshmi Puja, I recommend reviewing the following areas.

North-East Direction: Keep the Ishaan Corner Clean

The North-East is considered an important spiritual zone in Vastu.

• Avoid unnecessary storage in this area.
• Keep the puja space clean.
• Remove dust and unused objects.
• Allow natural light wherever possible.
• Avoid placing heavy furniture unnecessarily.

Brahmasthan: Keep the Centre of Your Home Open

The central area of the home is known as Brahmasthan.

It is traditionally considered important for maintaining balance within the house.

• Remove unnecessary furniture from the centre.
• Avoid accumulating cartons and unused household items.
• Keep the passageways clear.
• Ensure proper ventilation and movement.

Main Entrance: Remove Unwanted Objects

The main entrance is an important area in Vastu.

• Remove broken footwear.
• Clean the entrance door.
• Remove unnecessary items kept near the entrance.
• Decorate the doorway with a traditional toran.
• Prepare a clean space for a rangoli.

South Direction: Respectful Ancestor Remembrance

Some families light a lamp in remembrance of ancestors during the festival period.

Follow your family tradition regarding the direction and placement of the lamp. Ensure that it is placed safely and away from flammable objects.

Repair Leaking Taps and Damaged Fixtures

Vastu traditions associate uncontrolled water leakage with the symbolic loss of resources.

From a practical perspective, leaking taps also waste water and should be repaired.

Narak Chaturdashi is a good reminder to take care of small maintenance issues before Diwali.

11. What Should You Remove From Your Home Before Diwali?

This is one of the most practical ways to observe the spirit of Rikta Tithi.

Before sunset on Narak Chaturdashi, review your home and remove things that are broken, expired or no longer useful.

Item	What you should do
Broken mirrors	Replace or dispose of safely
Stopped clocks	Repair or remove
Dry plants	Remove and replace where appropriate
Broken footwear	Repair or discard
Expired medicines	Dispose of safely
Torn clothes	Repair, reuse or donate if suitable
Old bills and papers	Organise or shred securely
Broken household objects	Repair or responsibly discard
Damaged decorations	Replace before Diwali
Unused packaging	Recycle or discard

What about damaged religious idols?

Religious objects should always be handled respectfully.

If an idol is damaged, consult your family tradition or a knowledgeable priest regarding appropriate disposal or replacement. Avoid casually throwing religious objects into rivers or public spaces.

The purpose of cleaning is to create a peaceful and organised environment, not to disrespect anything.

12. Narak Chaturdashi and Astrology: Which Planets Are Associated With the Day?

Narak Chaturdashi has several important planetary associations in traditional Jyotish.

Sun (Surya): The Ruling Planet of Sunday

Narak Chaturdashi 2026 falls on Sunday, which is governed by the Sun.

The Sun represents:

• Confidence and self-respect.
• Leadership and authority.
• Vitality and personal strength.
• Discipline and determination.
• Recognition and individuality.

The association with Sunday gives the day an additional symbolic message: remove self-doubt and strengthen your confidence.

Saturn (Shani): Discipline and the Traditional Oil Connection

Sesame oil is traditionally associated with Saturn.

Saturn represents patience, karma, hard work and responsibility.

The use of sesame oil in the traditional bathing ritual is sometimes interpreted as a reminder to maintain discipline and humility.

Mars (Mangal): Courage and Victory

Mars represents courage, strength, energy and the ability to overcome challenges.

The story of Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura can be interpreted symbolically through courage and the defeat of destructive forces.

Moon (Chandra): Emotional Cleansing

The Moon represents emotions, mental peace and the mind.

The pre-dawn bathing ritual and the symbolic cleansing associated with the festival can be understood as an opportunity to release emotional burdens and begin with a peaceful mindset.

These are traditional planetary interpretations. The actual strength and effects of planets must always be evaluated through an individual's complete birth chart.

13. Narak Chaturdashi Remedies According to Your Kundli

Many people look for remedies during Diwali to improve their financial condition, relationships, health and peace of mind.

However, a remedy should not be selected simply because a particular festival is approaching.

In Jyotish, I examine the complete Kundli, including the ascendant, planetary placements, aspects, conjunctions and running Mahadasha and Antardasha before suggesting individual remedies.

Here are some general traditional practices.

For Sun-Related Concerns

• Offer water to the rising Sun.
• Maintain discipline in your daily routine.
• Respect parents, elders and mentors.
• Practise gratitude and self-confidence.

For Saturn-Related Concerns

• Follow a disciplined routine.
• Help elderly and underprivileged people.
• Donate food or essential items.
• Practise patience and responsibility.

For Mars-Related Concerns

• Practise self-control.
• Avoid unnecessary arguments.
• Recite prayers to Lord Hanuman if this is part of your tradition.
• Use physical energy constructively.

For Mental Peace

• Spend time in meditation.
• Keep your puja area clean.
• Avoid unnecessary conflicts.
• Spend quality time with family.
• Practise gratitude.

Remember, spiritual remedies support personal discipline and devotion. They should not replace medical, financial or professional advice.

14. Narak Chaturdashi 2026 and Lakshmi Puja on the Same Day: What Does It Mean?

One of the most interesting calendar details of 2026 is that Narak Chaturdashi and Diwali Lakshmi Puja fall on the same date.

Sunday, 8 November 2026, begins with Krishna Chaturdashi during the pre-dawn hours.

At approximately 11:27 AM, Chaturdashi ends and Amavasya begins.

This means that two important observances share the same calendar date.

Morning: Narak Chaturdashi

The focus is on:

• Abhyanga Snan.
• Personal cleansing.
• Remembering Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura.
• Traditional purification rituals.
• Removing unwanted items from the home.

Evening: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja

The focus shifts towards:

• Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi.
• Praying to Lord Ganesha.
• Inviting prosperity and abundance.
• Lighting diyas.
• Spending time with family.

The transition has a beautiful symbolic meaning.

The morning is dedicated to cleansing and removing negativity. The evening is dedicated to welcoming prosperity, happiness and new beginnings.

For Mumbai, the evening Lakshmi Puja muhurat is approximately 6:27 PM to 8:27 PM, according to the local Panchang.

Always follow the specific local Panchang and family tradition for the final puja schedule.

15. What Should You Avoid on Narak Chaturdashi?

Although this is a festival of cleansing and celebration, some traditional practices encourage people to remain disciplined.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Avoid unnecessary arguments and harsh communication.
• Do not hold on to old resentment.
• Avoid keeping broken and unused objects unnecessarily.
• Do not neglect personal hygiene.
• Avoid frightening or exploitative spiritual practices.
• Do not perform rituals simply because of social pressure.
• Avoid unsafe placement of diyas and open flames.
• Follow your family traditions regarding food and fasting.

The purpose of Narak Chaturdashi is to encourage purification, discipline and positivity.

16. Narak Chaturdashi 2026: Complete Ritual Checklist

If you want to observe the festival traditionally, here is a simple checklist.

Before sunrise

• Wake up during the Abhyanga Snan Muhurat.
• Apply suitable traditional oil.
• Use an herbal ubtan according to your family custom.
• Take a bath before sunrise.
• Perform the Karit ritual if followed in your family.
• Offer prayers to Lord Krishna.

During the day

• Clean the house thoroughly.
• Remove broken and unused household items.
• Organise the North-East and Brahmasthan.
• Prepare the puja space.
• Arrange flowers, diyas and puja materials.

In the evening

• Observe your family's tradition of lighting lamps.
• Remember ancestors if that is part of your custom.
• Perform Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja during the appropriate muhurat.
• Share sweets and spend time with family.

Final Words

Narak Chaturdashi is often called Chhoti Diwali, but its message is anything but small.

It reminds us that before inviting prosperity into our homes, we must learn to remove what creates disorder in our lives.

The tradition of Abhyanga Snan teaches personal care and purification. The story of Narakasura reminds us to overcome ego and destructive tendencies. The Rikta Tithi encourages us to release what is no longer useful. Vastu reminds us to maintain a clean and balanced living environment.

This year, Narak Chaturdashi and Lakshmi Puja share Sunday, 8 November 2026. The morning offers an opportunity for cleansing, while the evening welcomes the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

My advice is simple: do not celebrate Diwali only by buying new things. Celebrate it by improving the space you live in, the relationships you maintain and the thoughts you carry.

Sometimes, the most auspicious thing you can do is make room for something better.