Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival and holds a special place in Hindu tradition. Celebrated two days before Diwali, Dhanteras is a day to honor wealth, health, and prosperity. It is on this day that Hindus worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and bring new items home, symbolizing renewal and abundance. Let’s dive deeper into the significance of Dhanteras and the customs associated with it.
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What is the Meaning of Dhanteras?
The word “Dhanteras” combines two elements: ‘Dhan’ meaning wealth and ‘Teras’ meaning thirteen, referring to the thirteenth day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Kartik. Traditionally, it is a day to worship Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth), and Lord Kuber (the god of prosperity). It is believed that prayers and rituals performed on this day can enhance wealth, prosperity, and happiness at home. Many people also purchase auspicious items like utensils, gold, silver, and brass, symbolizing a welcome of prosperity into their lives.
Why is Dhanteras Celebrated?
Dhanteras celebrates both spiritual and material abundance, aligning with the Diwali festivities. The day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kuber, and Lord Dhanvantari. In Hindu mythology, Lord Dhanvantari, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, emerged from the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean) on Kartik Krishna Trayodashi, holding a pot of amrit (nectar of immortality). This appearance symbolizes the triumph of health, longevity, and wellbeing, themes central to Dhanteras. By honoring Lord Dhanvantari, devotees seek freedom from illnesses and ailments.
When is Dhanteras in 2024?
In 2024, Kartik Trayodashi Tithi begins on October 29 at 10:31 am and ends on October 30 at 1:15 pm. Based on the Udaya Tithi (the prevailing tithi at sunrise), Dhanteras will be celebrated on October 29, 2024.
Auspicious Puja Time for Dhanteras 2024
The auspicious time to perform Dhanteras puja in 2024 falls between 6:30 pm and 8:12 pm. During this period, devotees can buy items like gold, silver, and utensils, placing them before Lord Dhanvantari as a symbol of respect and devotion.
Why Do People Buy Utensils on Dhanteras?
Purchasing utensils on Dhanteras is a deeply symbolic act tied to the legend of Lord Dhanvantari. When he emerged from the cosmic ocean, he held a pot filled with amrit, signifying health, prosperity, and the elimination of disease. This tradition evolved to include the purchase of utensils, as it is believed to bring health and abundance to the home. By bringing new utensils into their household, people invite the blessings of Lord Dhanvantari and express their wish for enduring prosperity.
What Items Should Be Avoided on Dhanteras?
While Dhanteras is a day for acquiring auspicious items, there are certain things to avoid purchasing, as they are considered inauspicious:
- Sharp Objects: Items like knives, scissors, and pins should be avoided, as they are believed to disrupt the flow of positive energy.
- Iron and Steel: Buying items made of iron on Dhanteras is discouraged, as it may hinder the blessings of Lord Kuber.
- Black and Glass Items: Black-colored items and glass objects are considered inauspicious as they do not align with the prosperity-focused spirit of the day.
- Aluminum and Plastic: These materials are avoided in favor of metals like gold, silver, and brass, which hold positive symbolic value.
By observing these traditions, devotees aim to bring auspiciousness and good fortune to their homes during Dhanteras and the Diwali season.