Kali Chaudas is observed on the Chaturdashi (fourteenth day) of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Kartik. According to the Vedic calendar, this festival is being celebrated today, November 7th. On this occasion, it is customary to worship Goddess Kali, Lord Hanuman, and Yamraj (the God of Death). Kali Chaudas marks the second day of the five-day grand festival (Diwali).

There are several religious beliefs associated with this festival, many of which are not widely known. In this article, we will explore the key beliefs surrounding Kali Chaudas in detail.

Why is the festival of Kali Chaudas significant?
Worship of Goddess Kali and a symbol of divine power—It is customary to perform special worship of Goddess Kali on the occasion of Kali Chaudas. According to mythology, when the tyranny of the demon Raktabija and other Asuras (demons) became unbearable across the three worlds, Goddess Kali manifested to destroy them. It is believed that performing the prescribed worship of Goddess Kali liberates the devotee from all forms of mental and physical suffering.

Slaying of the demon Narakasura—According to legend, on this very day, Lord Krishna slew the tyrannical demon Narakasura and liberated 16,000 maidens from his captivity. After defeating Narakasura, Lord Krishna bathed after applying oil and *ubtan* (a traditional herbal paste) to cleanse his body of the bloodstains. This is the origin of the tradition of *Abhyanga Snan*—a ritual bath taken after applying oil and *ubtan*.

The Lamp for Yama (*Yam ka Deepak*)—There is an ancient tradition of lighting a lamp (*deepdaan*) dedicated to Yamraj on the evening of Kali Chaudas. According to religious belief, lighting a lamp facing the southern direction on this day dispels the fear of untimely death and grants the blessing of a long life to the members of the family.

Liberation from Negative Forces and Occult Practices – The night of Kali Chaudas is considered highly potent for ridding oneself of the 'evil eye' (buri nazar), occult practices (tantra-mantra), and negative energy. On this night, devotees perform special rituals and chant mantras, which help remove obstacles facing the household and foster the flow of positive energy.

Worship of Lord Hanuman – In many regions, including Gujarat and Maharashtra, special worship of Lord Hanuman is conducted on this day. It is customary to offer vermilion (sindoor), oil, and a ceremonial robe (chola) to Bajrangbali. It is believed that worshipping the 'Sankatmochan' (the remover of all troubles) on this day dispels all fears, crises, and planetary afflictions (graha dosha) from one's life.

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