As the Diwali lights end, houses all over India are lit up once again but this time in honor of Chitragupta Puja, the festival dedicated to Lord Chitragupta who is the heavenly accountant of human karma. Celebrated on Bhai Dooj, the day holds special meaning for the Kayastha community, who praise him as the divine protector of justice and wisdom.
This year, the puja is being performed on October 23, with Dwitiya Tithi from 8:16 pm on October 22 to 10:46 pm on October 23. The most favorable window of time for the rituals is the Aparahna Muhurat between 1:13 pm and 3:28 pm.
Honoring the Cosmic Record-Keeper
Scriptures have referred to Lord Chitragupta as the keeper of the record of every human action, rewarding the righteous and reminding the rest of duty. On this day, worshippers pray not only for forgiveness of past sins, but also for clarity and balance in their lives.
Rituals start at dawn. Houses are swept and purified prior to arranging a wooden plank in a direction facing east, decorated with rangoli. Lord Chitragupta idol is bathed in rose water, flowers, roli, rice, and a burning ghee diya. Devotees make panchamitra with a blend of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee as offerings.
Symbolic pen and notebook are kept in front of the deity symbolizing the values of education and truthful documentation. The puja is followed by Chitragupta Katha and aarti as a prayer for truth, justice, and spiritual insight.
For most, the festival serves as a reminder that no act goes unnoticed and that righteousness, not wealth, is the greatest legacy.
