Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is an auspicious Hindu festival that is celebrated two days before Diwali. It holds great significance for Hindus as it marks the beginning of the festive season and is believed to bring prosperity and wealth to the household. Let’s delve into the details of this vibrant and joyous festival.
The word “Dhanteras” is derived from two Sanskrit words, “Dhan” meaning wealth and “Teras” meaning the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight. This festival falls on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually falls in October or November according to the Gregorian calendar.
Dhanteras holds immense importance, especially for business owners and traders, as it’s considered an auspicious day to buy gold, silver, utensils, or any other valuable items. People believe that purchasing new items on this day will bring good luck and prosperity to their lives. It is also customary to clean and decorate homes and offices to welcome the Goddess of Wealth, Goddess Lakshmi.
On Dhanteras, people wake up before sunrise and take a ritualistic bath, preferably using Ubtan (a mixture of herbs and natural ingredients). Afterward, they wear new clothes and offer prayers to Lord Kubera, the treasurer of the gods, seeking blessings for wealth and prosperity. In some regions, prayers are also offered to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of medicine and healing.
One of the highlights of Dhanteras is the worship of Goddess Lakshmi in the evening. People light oil lamps and place them around their homes to welcome her. They perform elaborate rituals, chant mantras, and offer flowers, sweets, and fruits to the goddess. It is believed that inviting Lakshmi into one’s home on Dhanteras ensures a prosperous and happy life.
The festival of Dhanteras is not limited to just buying new items and worshiping deities. It also symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In some parts of India, people create intricate rangolis (artistic patterns made with colored powders) at the entrance of their homes to ward off negative energies and bring positivity. Firecrackers are also burst to celebrate the joyous occasion.
Apart from its religious significance, Dhanteras is also a time for family gatherings and feasting. Families come together to prepare delicious sweets and savory dishes. It is customary to exchange gifts and presents among loved ones to strengthen the bond of love and affection.
In recent times, Dhanteras has gained commercial significance as well. Many retail stores and jewelry shops offer attractive discounts, offers, and sales on this day, which attracts shoppers looking to make purchases for the upcoming Diwali celebrations.
Overall, Dhanteras is a festival that brings joy, prosperity, and happiness to every household. It is a time to celebrate the blessings of wealth and abundance and to seek the divine blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. So, let us all embrace the spirit of Dhanteras and welcome prosperity into our lives!
