Lighting 14 diyas on Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, symbolises the illumination of the 14 realms, prayer for prosperity, protection against premature death, and preparation for Goddess Lakshmi’s arrival.

Choti Diwali is observed on the Chaturdashi Tithi of the Hindu month of Kartik. Each diya lit on this day carries its own spiritual meaning, honours Lord Yama (the God of Death) and celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.

Why Exactly 14 Diyas Are Lit On Choti Diwali?

According to Hindu scriptures, the number 14 is not random. It aligns with the tithi and carries deep spiritual traditions embedded in Vedic astrology:

1. The main diya lit on Choti Diwali evening is a four-wick mustard oil lamp dedicated to Lord Yamraj, the God of Death. This diya is also known as Yama Deepam.

According to Garuda Purna, lighting lamps for Yamraj on Narak Chaturdashi facing south wards off sudden or premature death, negative energies, and brings peace to ancestral souls.

2. According to legends, on this day, Lord Krishna, along with Satyabhama, defeated the demon Narakasura, who had captured 16000 women. The 14 diyas that are lit represent his victory over dark forces across the 14 lokas (realms) of existence.

3. Choti Diwali serves as the ultimate cleansing and preparation ritual. Placing 14 diyas in specific places in the house removes darkness and invites the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera on the main day of Diwali.

Each diya lit on this day carries its own spiritual meaning and honours Lord Yama (Image: Pexels)

ALSO READ: Narak Chaturdashi 2026: Date, Abhyang Snan Timings, Puja Rituals And Significance

Where Should You Place The 14 Diyas?

The placement of diyas matters as much as the count. According to Vastu and scriptural guidelines, place the ghee diyas in these spots of the house:

Location

Significance

Outside the home facing South

The First Diya to ward off untimely death

Main Entrance

Front door to welcome prosperity

Pooja Room

In front of idols to invoke divine blessings

Tulsi Plant

To honour Goddess Vrinda and bring peace to the household

Kitchen

Near the drinking water storage to honour and appease ancestors

Banyan or Peepal Tree

Symbolises reverence for the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh)

Near a Nearby Temple

Lit as an offering to the community deity

Trash or Washroom Outer Area

To remove negative energies from unclean areas

Rooftop / Terrace

Symbolises radiating positive light into the sky

Veranda or Courtyard

Illuminates the heart of the home

Window Sills

Radiate warmth to visitors and passersby

Staircase

Ensures safe movement and positive energy flow through levels of the house

Workplace or Study Area

Invokes Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesha for wisdom and success

Safe or Locker Area

Placed near your valuables to seek Lord Kuber’s protection

Important Things To Do On Choti Diwali Along With Lighting Diwali

Along with lighting fourteen diyas on Choti Diwali, some rituals and things should be kept in mind:

1. Abhyang Snan (Holy Bath): Taking a holy bath and applying herbal ubtan before sunrise on Naraka Chaturdashi is believed to cleanse karmic sins and enhance personal radiance.

2. Timing the Diyas: Diyas should be lit during Pradosh Kaal for maximum spiritual benefit.

3. Oil Selection: When lighting the 14 diyas, the Yama deepam should be lit using mustard oil, while pure desi ghee is ideal for the temple and Tulsi plant.

ALSO READ: 30+ Lord Hanuman Mantras To Chant During Kali Chaudas

Thus, lighting 14 diyas on the Choti Diwali brings protection, prosperity and happiness to the family.

FAQs

1. What time should the 14 diyas be lit on Choti Diwali?

They should be lit during Pradosh Kaal (late evening sunset hour) on Naraka Chaturdashi.

2. Can we use gel or wax candles instead of clay diyas?

Traditional earthen clay diyas are preferred because they represent the earth element bringing stability and positive Vastu energy.