Marking the start of Diwali, Dhanteras celebrates the arrival of Lord Dhanvantari, symbolising health and prosperity. The festival encourages the purchase of gold, silver, and utensils, believed to bring wealth and positive energy to your home. Beyond this, Dhanteras emphasises spiritual well-being and the importance of safeguarding health and financial security.

Also known as Dhantrayodashi, Dhanteras is a significant festival that marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations. Observed on the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik, this auspicious day is dedicated to worshipping wealth, health, and prosperity.

The term ‘Dhanteras’ is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Dhan’, meaning wealth, and ‘Teras’,

Let us explore the history and significance of Dhanteras, shedding light on why this festival remains one of the most celebrated traditions in India.

History and Origins of Dhanteras

Dhanteras has its roots in various ancient Hindu legends and texts. The most prominent tale revolves around Lord Dhanvantari, who is revered as the physician of the gods and the deity of Ayurveda. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) on this day, carrying a kalash (pot) filled with the nectar of immortality in one hand, and the sacred text of Ayurveda in the other hand. Thus, Dhanteras is celebrated in honour of Lord Dhanvantari, and people pray for good health and longevity during the pooja for Dhanteras.

Another popular legend tied to Dhanteras relates to King Hima and the prophecy of his son’s untimely death. According to the story, it was predicted that the prince would die on the fourth day of his marriage due to a snakebite. To avoid this fate, the young bride placed many gold ornaments, coins, and lamps near the entrance of their home and kept her husband awake by telling stories and singing songs.

When Yama, the god of death, arrived disguised as a serpent, he was blinded by the dazzling display of wealth, sat there listening to the stories & songs, and left in the morning without harming the prince. This story gave rise to the custom of lighting diyas (lamps) on Dhanteras, which are believed to ward off evil and protect against unnatural death.

The Religious Significance of Dhanteras

This day holds deep religious significance in Hinduism, where it is associated with the worship of wealth and prosperity. On Dhanteras, devotees pray to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, seeking her blessings for financial prosperity, success, and abundance. Dhanteras pooja is an important part of the day’s rituals, and people also wish each other ‘Happy Dhanteras’, as they exchange blessings for good fortune.

On Dhanteras, homes and businesses are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with rangolis, marigold flowers, and lit diyas to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. In many households, a special Lakshmi Puja is performed in the evening to invite the goddess and ensure her blessings of wealth. Lord Kubera, the treasurer of the gods, is also worshipped on Dhanteras, as he is seen as the protector of wealth.

For the business community, Dhanteras is considered the most auspicious day to start new ventures, as it is believed to bring long-term success. Many people also conduct Dhanteras shopping, buying items like gold, silver, and new utensils as symbols of prosperity.

Lessons from Dhanteras

This auspicious day teaches us many valuable lessons that we can incorporate into our lives. One of the central messages is the importance of health and well-being. As the day is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, Dhanteras reminds us that wealth is meaningless without good health. Taking care of our physical and mental well-being should be a priority, and pursuing wealth should not come at the cost of our health. This is a key lesson highlighted during Dhanteras puja.

Another important lesson is the value of preparation and financial foresight. The festival encourages us to plan for the future, make wise investments, and protect ourselves from unforeseen challenges. By purchasing gold, silver, and other items of value, Dhanteras symbolises the need to build and safeguard wealth for future generations. This reflects the importance of saving, investing, and creating a strong financial foundation for the long term.

Moreover, lighting diyas to ward off negative energies teaches us the significance of taking preventive measures to protect ourselves and our families from potential spiritual and material hardships.

Conclusion

Dhanteras is about acquiring material wealth and balancing physical well-being and financial security. It teaches us timeless lessons about cherishing health, investing wisely, and seeking spiritual protection, making it an enduring festival of prosperity and happiness.

As we continue to observe this sacred day, we keep alive the values of foresight, preparation, and gratitude for the blessings we receive. As you celebrate, remember to wish your loved ones a Happy Dhanteras and embrace the spirit of balance & prosperity that the festival embodies.

FAQs

1. Which deity is worshipped on Dhanteras?

Deities worshipped on Dhanteras are Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda – to seek blessings for prosperity and good health.

2. Why is a broom purchased on Dhanteras?

A broom is purchased on Dhanteras as a symbol of removing negativity, poverty, and evil from the house, inviting cleanliness, prosperity, and good fortune.

3. Why do we wash coins on Dhanteras?

We wash coins on Dhanteras as a ritual to purify them and invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolising the purification of wealth and prosperity.

4. Which colour to wear on Dhanteras?

Colours to wear on Dhanteras are yellow or red, as they are considered auspicious, since these colours represent prosperity, positivity, and good fortune.

5. Why do we buy new utensils on Dhanteras?

We buy new utensils on Dhanteras, as they symbolise the start of new prosperity and abundance since it is believed that bringing home metal items invites Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings for wealth.