Dhanteras

Dhanteras, a significant Hindu festival, marks the auspicious beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration. It is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and the originator of Ayurveda.

Dhanteras is derived from two Sanskrit words, “Dhan,” meaning wealth, and “Teras,” meaning the thirteenth day. This day is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, who is believed to have emerged from the ocean with the nectar of immortality (amrita) during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) in Hindu mythology.

Significance:

• Worship of Goddess Lakshmi: The evening of Dhanteras is devoted to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. Families offer prayers, light diyas, and create intricate rangoli designs to invite her blessings into their homes. It is believed that performing Lakshmi Puja on this day ensures prosperity and good fortune throughout the year.
• Worship of Lord Dhanvantari: Dhanteras is also associated with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari. According to Hindu mythology, he emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean, carrying the elixir of immortality and the knowledge of Ayurveda. Worshipping Lord Dhanvantari on this day is believed to bring good health and longevity.
• Auspicious Day for Purchases: Dhanteras is considered an extremely auspicious day to make purchases, particularly gold, silver, utensils, and other valuable items. It is believed that buying these items on this day brings good luck and prosperity. Many people believe that purchasing new utensils on Dhanteras symbolizes the beginning of a new and prosperous chapter in their lives.

Celebrations:

• Cleaning and Decorating Homes: Homes are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with colorful rangoli designs, diyas, and flowers to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. The festive atmosphere is enhanced with the aroma of incense sticks and the melodious chants of mantras.
• Puja Rituals: Families perform elaborate puja rituals to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, offering prayers, flowers, fruits, and sweets. The puja is often followed by aarti, a devotional ceremony involving waving lighted lamps in front of the deities.
• New Purchases: Many people take advantage of the auspicious occasion to make significant purchases, such as jewelry, electronic gadgets, or vehicles. It is believed that these purchases, made on Dhanteras, are blessed and bring good fortune.
• Lighting Diyas: Diyas, small clay lamps filled with oil, are lit throughout the night to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The twinkling lights create a magical ambiance, adding to the festive spirit.
• Shopping for Gold and Silver: Buying gold, silver, or other precious items is seen as auspicious on Dhanteras, as it is believed to bring prosperity.

Dhanteras holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus, marking the beginning of a joyous and prosperous festive season. It is a time for family, friends, and community to come together, celebrate, and seek the blessings of the divine.