Kali Chaudas 2026: Date, Significance & Puja Rituals

Kali Chaudas, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated one day before Diwali, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra. Devotees worship Goddess Kali and remember Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. Read on to know the 2026 Kali Chaudas date, muhurat, rituals, and significance.

2026 Kali Chaudas Muhurat & Date 

• Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: 10:47 AM on Nov 07, 2026 
• Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: 11:27 AM on Nov 08, 2026 

What is Kali Chaudas Festival? 

2026 Kali Chaudas, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, is celebrated on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, one day before Diwali. The festival commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

While it is widely known as Naraka Chaturdashi across India, people in Gujarat and parts of Maharashtra commonly call it Kali Chaudas and worship Goddess Kali for protection from negative energies.

The name Kali Chaudas combines “Kali,” referring to Goddess Kali, with “Chaudas,” meaning the fourteenth lunar day (Chaturdashi). On this auspicious day, devotees perform Abhyang Snan before sunrise, light diyas, offer prayers, and seek blessings for protection, prosperity, and spiritual cleansing. 

Also Read- Diwali 2025: Remedies To Attract Luck and Wealth

Significance of 2026 Kali Chaudas Puja

The name “Kali Chaudas” itself holds significance. “Kali” refers to dark or black, and “Chaudas” means the fourteenth. On this day, Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura symbolises the success of light over darkness and good over evil.

However, to actively celebrate Kali Chaudas, devotees symbolise their participation in the triumph of good over evil. Kali Chaudas reminds us of the constant battle between good and evil and the importance of righteousness winning over wickedness. 

2026 Kali Chaudas Puja Rituals

The 2026 Kali Chaudas Puja includes several traditional rituals that devotees follow to cleanse the mind and body while seeking the blessings of Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna.

During Naraka Chaturdashi or Kali Chaudas, several rituals and offerings are followed to celebrate the occasion. Here are the rituals and practices observed during this festival: 

1. Abhyang Snan (Holy Bath)

Before sunrise, people take an oil bath or apply oil and ubtan (a paste made of herbs and aromatic substances) to cleanse their bodies and purify themselves.

2. Goddess Kali Puja offerings 

Devotees offer the deity red vermilion powder, often applying it on the idol or image’s forehead as a mark of respect and devotion. They also offer sweets, such as laddoos or kheer, and a variety of fruits to please Goddess Kali and seek her blessings.

3. Narakasura Vadh

Lord Krishna and Goddess Kali commemorate the defeat of the demon Narakasura. Some people read and act out this story through skits or performances. Narakasura Vadh, also known as the slaying of Narakasura, is a popular Hindu mythological story.

4. Fasting

Kali Maa fasting day typically lasts from sunrise to sunset. However, people eat “Prasad” or “Paran” to break the fast after a long day. People consider it blessed and offer it to the deity during the puja. The cook prepares the meal using vegetarian ingredients and avoids onion or garlic. 

5. Crushing of Bitter Berry

On Naraka Chaturdashi, people symbolically crush a bitter berry during Diwali to celebrate the victory of good over evil. People perform the ritual of crushing a bitter berry, often made of clay or cow dung, to represent the defeat of evil forces. 

6. Bhajans and Aarti

Devotees sing bhajans and devotional songs on Kali Chaudas to honour the goddess Kali and seek her blessings. This day is auspicious for worshipping Kali because she protects them from evil forces and negativity.

7. Preparation of Prasad

People prepare special dishes and sweets, like kheer (rice pudding), puris (deep-fried bread), and ladoos. These dishes are first offered to the Lord. They later distribute the prasad among family members and guests.

Click here for Labh Pancham 2025 Muhurat

Mythology Associated With Kali Chaudas

As we celebrate this festival of lights, let us also tell you the story behind Naraka Chaturdashi, or you can also say Kali Chaudas! You might know that every festival has specific traditions, rituals, and customs. Knowing the story helps us understand the origin of these practices, making the celebrations more meaningful and authentic. 

The Tale Of Lord Krishna & Narakasura

Naraka Chaturdashi is closely associated with the legend of Lord Krishna and the demon Narakasura. Narakasura was a powerful demon king who gained immense power and became a tyrant. He conquered several kingdoms and imprisoned many innocent people. Narakasura was known for his cruelty and menace to humans and gods.

Feeling helpless, the Gods asked Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, for help. Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama waged a fierce battle against Narakasura. After a long and severe fight, Lord Krishna appeared as the winner and killed the demon Narakasura on the day of Chaturdashi.

Therefore, this event symbolises the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and justice over tyranny.

As a result of Narakasura’s death, the people Narakasura had imprisoned were free, and there was a wave of joy and relief. People lit oil lamps and burst firecrackers to celebrate the prisoners’ victory and liberation. This tradition continues today and is integral to the Naraka Chaturdashi celebrations. 

Summary 

2026 Kali Chaudas is a sacred festival celebrated before Diwali to honour Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. By performing 2026 Kali Chaudas Puja, devotees seek protection, spiritual cleansing, prosperity, and the blessings of good over evil.

Frequently Asked Questions 

For interesting Astrological Facts and Videos, follow us on Instagram and read your daily horoscope.