Bali Pratipada or Bali Pujan is observed on the following day of Diwali. In 2025, Bali Pratipada date is October 22.
It marks the beginning of Kartik Month in Amavasyant calendars followed in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka. It is also known as Bali Padyami and Vamana Jayanti in some places.
As we all know, ‘Indra’ (King of Gods) is a post and the one who observes 100 Yagnas (sacrifices) would get the post of Indra. King Bali has observed 99 Yagnas and was about to observe his 100th Yagna. In order to avoid him become the ‘Indra’, Lord Vishnu incarnated as ‘Vamana’ and pressed him down to Pathala Loka (netherworld).
Lord Vishnu blessed Bali with a boon that he can visit his kingdom for three days – Narak Chaturdasi, Diwali & Bali Pratipada. He also got the boon that the following day of Diwali would be dedicated to his Puja (Bali Pujan). The above story is mentioned in the Skanda Purana.