Dhanteras, celebrated in 2024 as a part of the Diwali festival, is a day dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, who is believed to bring health and prosperity to devotees. According to Hindu mythology, he emerged with the “Amrit Kalash” during the Samudra Manthan on this day, which is why he is venerated as the divine healer and father of Ayurveda. Worshipping him on Dhanteras is thought to relieve ailments and bless devotees with good health and abundance.
Significance and Customs of Dhanteras
This day marks the beginning of Diwali, and in addition to worship, Dhanteras is associated with auspicious shopping. The centuries-old tradition of buying valuable items on this day is believed to bring good fortune. People purchase gold, silver, and other valuables, with the belief that it invites prosperity and blessings into their homes. Additionally, many also bring home items associated with health and wellness, as a tribute to Lord Dhanvantari.
The tradition of purchasing items on Dhanteras is significant in Indian culture because it’s thought that these items symbolize blessings and wealth for the coming year. However, it is also advised to avoid purchasing certain items to maintain positive energy and prosperity. Here’s a guide on what items are considered auspicious to buy and which should be avoided on Dhanteras:
What to Buy on Dhanteras
- Gold and Silver Jewelry: Gold and silver are considered auspicious purchases on Dhanteras, as they symbolize wealth and prosperity. Bringing these metals into the home is thought to strengthen financial stability and bring long-term benefits to the family.
- Coriander Seeds: Coriander seeds, commonly associated with fertility and abundance in some Indian cultures, are traditionally bought on Dhanteras. This custom is believed to encourage a good harvest and abundant food for the year.
- Lakshmi Charan (Footprints of Goddess Lakshmi): Many people bring Lakshmi Charan, or the symbolic footprints of Goddess Lakshmi, into their homes on Dhanteras. This is believed to welcome the goddess of wealth herself, inviting prosperity and good fortune.
- Idols of Lakshmi and Ganesh: Idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh are purchased to place in Diwali pooja (rituals). Worshiping these deities during the festive season is thought to bring both wealth and wisdom.
- New Vehicles: Dhanteras is considered a lucky day to buy new vehicles. In Indian tradition, vehicles are often blessed with rituals to ensure they bring safety and prosperity to the household.
- New Clothes: Purchasing new clothes on Dhanteras is customary for many, as it represents new beginnings and is a way of honoring the festive spirit.
- Utensils: Buying utensils is an age-old Dhanteras tradition. Many people buy kitchen items, particularly metal utensils, as they’re believed to enhance the family’s fortune.
- Broom: While unusual, buying a new broom on Dhanteras is said to cleanse the home of negative energies. It is also thought to promote financial stability.
- Salt: Some families buy salt on Dhanteras, a custom believed to foster happiness and harmony within the household.
- Betel Leaves: Betel leaves are also considered auspicious, as they are used in various rituals and signify good luck.
What Not to Buy on Dhanteras
- Iron: Iron is avoided because, according to tradition, it can attract negative energies and lead to financial challenges. Instead, it is suggested to bring items made of silver or brass.
- Aluminum Items: Buying aluminum items is discouraged on Dhanteras. Traditionally, they are thought to bring poverty or misfortune to the household.
- Clay Utensils: Although clay utensils are part of India’s cultural heritage, they are avoided on Dhanteras as they’re believed to reduce family happiness and peace.
- Glass: It’s considered inauspicious to buy glass on Dhanteras, as it is believed to have a negative impact on financial stability.
Tips for Dhanteras Puja and Shopping
If you’re planning on celebrating Dhanteras, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Set Up a Simple Puja: Begin the celebration with a puja for Lord Dhanvantari. Light diyas, offer flowers, and place items of symbolic value, such as coins or gold jewelry, in front of his idol or image.
- Shopping Rituals: If possible, complete your shopping for gold, silver, or other auspicious items before sunset, as evening is typically considered a more favorable time for worship.
- Clean and Decorate the Home: Dhanteras is also associated with cleaning and decorating the house. Cleaning is seen as a way of welcoming Goddess Lakshmi and inviting her blessings.
- Respect Traditions, But Keep Personal Preferences in Mind: While traditions suggest not buying certain items, every family has its customs. Adjust according to what feels meaningful and respectful within your own practices.
- Diwali Preparations: Many consider Dhanteras as an opportunity to prepare for the Diwali festivities. Lighting diyas, cleaning, and decorating the house are all customary, with the idea of preparing a welcoming space for Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh.
The Deeper Meaning of Dhanteras
Beyond the rituals and customs, Dhanteras symbolizes a time to honor health, prosperity, and well-being. This festival brings a reminder to value not only material wealth but also the blessings of health and family. The worship of Lord Dhanvantari, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and a symbol of healing, underscores this message. In a world where health and prosperity are cherished, Dhanteras is a time for gratitude and reflection on how these aspects enrich our lives.
Conclusion
Dhanteras is more than just a day of buying gold and silver; it is a celebration that encourages people to honor health, wealth, and family unity. With rituals that span from worshipping Lord Dhanvantari to carefully selecting items for purchase, Dhanteras combines tradition with cultural beliefs about prosperity and well-being.
The day’s significance, rooted in both mythology and tradition, makes Dhanteras a unique aspect of Diwali’s festivities. This year, as you celebrate, remember the deeper meaning behind the day and cherish the blessings it brings.