Dhanteras: Beginning of Diwali Festivities
The grand five-day Diwali festival begins with Dhanteras, also called Dhanatrayodashi. Falling on the thirteenth lunar day of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartika, this day is believed to bring wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. The name “Dhanteras” itself, meaning “wealth” (“dhan”) and “thirteen” (“teras”), highlights its significance and auspiciousness in the Hindu lunar calendar.
Significance of Dhanteras
In Hindu culture, Dhanteras is especially significant as it celebrates Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and a Vishnu incarnation. He emerged from the ocean during the churning (Samudra Manthan), bearing the Amrita (nectar of immortality). People also venerate Goddess Lakshmi, wealth’s deity, and Lord Kubera, the gods’ treasurer, hoping to bring financial security and prosperity.
Another Dhanteras tradition involves the tale of King Hima’s son, who was saved from an untimely death thanks to his wife’s ingenuity. A heap of gold and silver coins and bright lamps, placed at the door, stopped Yama, the god of death, from taking his soul. The auspiciousness of this day is reflected in the traditions of lighting lamps and buying gold or silver.
Dhanteras is observed with rituals, prayers, and special traditions that vary across different regions of India. However, some common practices include:
Purchasing Gold, Silver, and Utensils
One of the most popular customs of Dhanteras is buying precious metals like gold and silver. It is believed that making such purchases on this day brings prosperity and safeguards wealth. Many people also buy brass, copper, or silver utensils, symbolizing abundance and good fortune in the household.
Lakshmi Puja & Diyas
Hindu families perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening, offering flowers, sweets, and prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, seeking her blessings for financial stability and happiness. Small earthen lamps (diyas) are lit around homes, entrances, and balconies to ward off evil spirits and welcome positive energy.
Drawing Rangoli & Decorating Homes
Homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with colorful rangoli (intricate patterns made with colored powders or flower petals). Many people create footprints of Goddess Lakshmi leading from the entrance to the temple area, symbolizing her arrival.
Health and Well-being Rituals
As Dhanteras is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, people pray for good health and longevity. Some families prepare medicinal decoctions and practice traditional wellness rituals.
Buying Brooms – A Unique Tradition
In some parts of India, buying a broom on Dhanteras is believed to sweep away negativity and bring financial prosperity.
Wishing you all a prosperous and joyous Dhanteras!