Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. It is celebrated with great devotion and joy across India. The word Dhanteras comes from “Dhan” meaning wealth and “Teras” referring to the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik.
On this day, devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kubera to invite prosperity, good health, and happiness into their homes.
This festival holds immense cultural and spiritual value. It is believed that buying valuable items or metals on Dhanteras brings good luck and blessings of abundance.
Homes are decorated with lights and rangoli, and diyas are lit to drive away negativity and welcome divine energy.
Dhanteras also symbolizes the victory of health, wealth, and well-being over misfortune and illness. Observing the rituals with faith is said to remove poverty and negativity from life, paving the way for a prosperous year ahead.
What is Dhanteras also known as?
Dhanteras is also known as Dhantrayodashi. The day is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, who appeared during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) carrying a pot of nectar.
Hence, this day is not only about wealth but also about good health and longevity. In some regions, it is also called Dhanvantari Jayanti, as devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari as the divine physician who introduced Ayurveda to mankind.
What should we buy on Dhanteras?
Purchasing new items on Dhanteras is believed to invite wealth and prosperity into one’s home. Traditionally, people buy gold, silver, or brass utensils, which symbolize good fortune.
Many also buy coins with images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, jewelry, or home decor items made of metal. In modern times.
People also purchase gadgets, vehicles, or new clothes. Buying a broomstick and coriander seeds is considered very auspicious, as it signifies cleansing negative energy and inviting abundance.
Whatever you buy should be brought home before the evening and placed near the altar during the puja.
Dhanteras Puja Samagri (Puja Items)
The Dhanteras Puja Samagri plays an important role in performing the ritual properly. Here’s a simple list of essential items you will need:
- Idol or photo of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Dhanvantari
- Clay lamps (diyas) and ghee or oil
- Flowers, fruits, and sweets (especially kheel and batasha)
- Incense sticks (agarbatti) and camphor
- Water in a copper or brass vessel
- Rice grains (akshat), roli, turmeric, and betel leaves
- Coins or jewelry items for offering
- New utensils or silver items purchased on the day
These items are used during the evening puja to honor Goddess Lakshmi and invite her blessings of wealth and purity.
Read Also: Know Dhanteras Perfect Muhurat, Puja Vidhi, Significance
Dhanteras Puja Vidhi
The Dhanteras Puja usually takes place during the Pradosh Kaal, which begins after sunset. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to performing the puja:
1. Clean and decorate the entrance of your home with rangoli and diyas to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
2. Place the idols of Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Kubera on a clean altar.
3. Light a diya with ghee or sesame oil and offer flowers, sweets, and coins.
4. Chant Lakshmi mantras and pray for good fortune and prosperity.
5. Offer Naivedya (food) and Aarti to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera.
In the evening, light 13 Diyas at the entrance, especially one dedicated to Lord Yama for protection and good health.
After the puja, family members share sweets, light more diyas around the home, and celebrate the arrival of wealth and positivity.
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