Roop Chaudash, Roop Chaturdashi, is the second day of 5-day Diwali festival in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. In 2025, Roop Chaudash date is October 20.
Roop Chaturdashi Puja is also observed as Soundarya Siddhi Divas. This day is celebrated as Kali Choudash and Hanuman Puja in Gujarat, and Naraka Chaturdashi and Choti Diwali throughout India.
People believe that Roop Chaturdashi puja brings them handsomeness or beauty or enhances their physique.
Roop Chaudash Snan is an auspicious ritual during Roop Chatudashi day. Special mantras or prayers are chanted during this ritual bath. In Maharashtra also Roop Choudash Snan is considered as an auspicious ritual. Hindus believe this pavitra snan makes them handsome or beautiful.
Significance and Legends
- Cultural Importance: Roop Chaudash is dedicated to beauty and self-care, where women engage in various beauty rituals to prepare for Diwali. The term “Roop” translates to beauty, while “Chaturdashi” refers to the fourteenth day.
- Mythological Background: The festival commemorates the victory of good over evil, particularly the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna and his consort Satyabhama. It is believed that on this day, Krishna killed Narakasura, liberating many captives and thus marking a day of celebration. Additionally, Goddess Kali is worshipped for her role in defeating evil forces, specifically the demon Raktabija.
- Associated Rituals:
- Abhyang Snan: A traditional oil bath using sesame oil is performed to purify oneself and is believed to wash away sins
- Ubtan Application: Women apply a special herbal mixture (ubtan) made from gram flour and other natural ingredients to enhance their beauty
- Lighting Diyas: Earthen lamps (diyas) are lit in homes to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness
Celebration Practices
- Beauty Treatments: On Roop Chaudash, women often indulge in beauty treatments such as applying henna and using various cosmetics to enhance their appearance for Diwali.
- Puja Rituals: Special prayers are offered to Goddess Kali and other deities like Lord Hanuman, invoking protection from evil spirits
- Community Festivities: The festival fosters community spirit with families coming together to celebrate through shared meals and rituals.
Roop Chaudash serves as both a day of personal beautification and a cultural observance that sets the tone for the joyous celebrations of Diwali that follow.
Oh NO! I did roop chaudas this morning instead of yesterday…does that mean I wont be blessed with beauty this year! Watch out..I apologize in advance…and hope to pray on the correct day next year! Humph!