Dhanteras or Dhanatrayodashi is the first day of Diwali festival. It is being observed during the Krishna Paksha on the 13th lunar day of the Hindu calendar month of Ashvin. This particular day has lot of cultural and religious values and hence people celebrate this day wholeheartedly in India. Before we move further, let us learn why it is special and why it is associated with wealth, health, and prosperity.
The Mythological Significance
The tradition of Dhanteras has a mythological background to it. Yet, one of the most famous stories tells the tale of Lord Dhanvantri, the god of medicine, who appeared from the sea during Samudra Manthan, the churning of the sea for the vessel containing the elixir of life and priceless Ayurveda. Some of the Hindu people celebrate the birth of Lord Dhanvantari who is known as the god of health and healing.
For many Dhanteras is the day to pay obeisance to Lord Kubera, the god of wealth and success in trade and business. Several families believe that purchasing metals such as gold or silver or new utensils on Dhanteras attracts wealth into the home.
Rituals and Customs
On Dhanteras, people clean their houses, and make colorful designs on the entrance gate to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.Diyas are lit to remove duality and negativity and to bring light into the house.Lakshmi Puja is also done by many families in the evening with offering sweets and flowers.
Another significant practice is the buying of new things, which are considered to bring fortune. Earlier, people use to invest in gold or silver or utensils or electronics etc. The simple purchasing of an item is seen as an invitation to luck and prosperity in life and in business.
Modern-Day Celebrations
As with everything else, the Dhanteras has not been left behind; although it is still associated with traditional beliefs, the way people celebrate this day has evolved. Most of the stores provide Dhanteras offers for products, and there is an increase in e-commerce sales as people purchase everything, including jewelry, utensils, gadgets, and home appliances.
For some it is also a day to seek permanent prosperity by buying real estates, shares or other financial securities. Budgeting for the future fiscal year is also prepared mostly on Dhanteras in consonance with the spirit of the festival.
people offer prayers for good health, and it’s a popular day for buying healthcare-related items. It’s believed that setting health goals and focusing on wellness on this day brings lifelong benefits.
Dhanteras 2024: A Hopeful Start
We now enter Dhanteras 2024, and it has a positive outlook after the many difficult years the world has gone through recently. This festival enables individuals to remember what they have and what they want in future as a prosperous, healthy, and successful year. Regardless of which way it is celebrated through customs that are thousands of years old or the new investment options, Dhanteras reminds us how to respect the concept of wealth in all its tangible and intangible forms.
Tips for a Prosperous Dhanteras:
- Cleanse your space: Before Lakshmi Puja, ensure your home is clean and tidy, symbolizing the removal of negativity.
- Buy something new: Whether big or small, purchase something to symbolize new beginnings.
- Decorate with lights: Illuminate your home with diyas to invite positivity.
- Offer prayers for health: Invoke Lord Dhanvantari for blessings of well-being.
- Invest wisely: Use this day to make mindful financial investments that grow over time.
Conclusion
Dhanteras is not just about purchasing gold or silver; it is about seeking God’s blessings for wealth and good health and everything that is good and pure. Whether it is the bright, beautiful lighting of diyas and Rangolis or the glittering shine of new purchases the main idea of Dhanteras is in the creation of a joyful atmosphere and an expectation of happiness. On the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras this year, let us accept the riches which life has to offer and seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi to shower happiness, success and healthy life onto every household.
May this Dhanteras bring you abundance, joy, and peace. Happy Dhanteras!