Mumbai: Roop Chaudas, also known as Narak Chaturdashi, Narak Chaudas, or Choti Diwali, is celebrated a day before Diwali. This auspicious day is believed to enhance beauty and bring good fortune through specific rituals. It is said that on Diwali night, Goddess Lakshmi descends to Earth, blessing clean and well-maintained homes. However, one day before Diwali, her sister Alakshmi is thought to arrive, and she is believed to settle in untidy homes. Roop Chaudas is also associated with various beliefs and stories, including remedies to ward off diseases and overcome challenges.
Roop Chaudas 2024 Date and Time
In 2024, Roop Chaudas, also known as Narak Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, falls on Wednesday, October 30, according to the Vedic Panchang. The Chaturdashi Tithi begins on October 30 at 1:15 PM and ends on October 31 at 3:52 PM.
Start of Chaturdashi Tithi: Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 1:15 PM
End of Chaturdashi Tithi: Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 3:52 PM
Key Rituals and Remedies for Roop Chaudas 2024
1. Beauty Rituals for Roop Chaudas
One of the most popular traditions on Roop Chaudas is the Abhyanga or oil massage, meant to enhance beauty and radiance. On the morning of October 30, devotees are advised to wake up before sunrise, complete daily routines, and apply a paste made from turmeric, sandalwood, gram flour, honey, saffron, and milk. Each ingredient is believed to bestow unique benefits:
Turmeric: Known for its purifying properties, turmeric helps brighten the skin.
Sandalwood: Soothes and calms the skin, reducing irritation.
Gram Flour: A natural exfoliant that helps to cleanse the skin deeply.
Honey: Adds moisture, making the skin soft and supple.
Saffron: Enhances complexion and gives a glowing effect.
Milk: Nourishes and hydrates, leaving the skin smooth.
After applying the paste, take a bath and recite a prayer to preserve beauty and wellness.
2. Wealth-Attracting Rituals
To attract wealth on Roop Chaudas, it is customary to place a red cloth packet containing red sandalwood, rose petals, and roli (vermilion) in a safe or valuables drawer. This act symbolises an invitation to Goddess Lakshmi, who brings prosperity and success in financial matters throughout the year.
3. Worship to Please Goddess Lakshmi
Roop Chaudas, also known as Kaal Chaudas, includes the worship of Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar and King Bali. Performing this worship with traditional rituals is believed to please Goddess Lakshmi, ensuring her blessings and grace upon the household. A Lakshmi pooja performed in the evening of Roop Chaudas marks the arrival of prosperity and blessings.
4. Protection from Untimely Death
For protection against negative energies and untimely death, devotees light four oil lamps at the main entrance of their homes in the evening of Narak Chaturdashi. Worshipping Yama, the god of death, along with Goddess Kali and Lord Hanuman, devotees then offer a Diya (lamp) facing east to ward off negative influences.
Roop Chaudas: A Prelude to Diwali
Roop Chaudas holds a significant place as a day to prepare oneself and the home for Diwali. Observing these rituals attracts blessings of beauty, health, and prosperity, making it an auspicious celebration for families.
