Dhanteras
Dhanteras is a Hindu celebration where people buy gold and utensils as it is believed to bring good luck, health, and prosperity and ward off evil.
It is celebrated on the 13th day after the full moon in the month of Ashwin or two days before Diwali.
This year, Dhanteras will be observed on 18 October 2025, with the Trayodashi Tithi starting at 12:18 PM on 18 October and ending at 1:51 PM on 19 October, while the auspicious time for Dhanteras Puja is from 7:16 PM to 8:20 PM, coinciding with the Pradosh Kaal from 5:48 PM to 8:20 PM and the Vrishabha Kaal from 7:16 PM to 9:11 PM.
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi and Dhanwantari Triodasi is derived from two words- ' Dhan ' (meaning wealth) and 'Teras' (meaning the 13th day). It is not a public holiday in India.
On this day, people clean their homes and light a Diya or lamp for the God of Death, Yamaraj. By doing so, you can prevent any accidents or mishaps which might have led to an untimely or unfortunate death.
The Story Behind Dhanteras
There are many legends or Hindu mythological stories that have been linked with the Dhanteras celebration.
The Tale of Samudra Manthan
Dhanteras is the day when people worship Lord Dhanvantari or the God of Ayurveda.
It is said when the Gods and Asuras were striving to obtain the nectar of immortality or Amrit from the ocean (also known as Samudra Manthan or churning of the milk ocean in the Hindu mythology), Lord Dhanvantari appeared.
He was holding a Kalash or pot filled with Amrit or nectar and a holy book about Ayurvedic medicines.
Thus, worshiping the God of Ayurveda is wholeheartedly performed to ensure the well-being of people. Jaggery and coriander are some offerings made to the God.
Due to this reason, National Ayurveda Day is also being celebrated on 23 September this year.
The Legend of the Devoted Wife and Lord Yamaraj
Another Hindu legend tells the story of a wife who was successful in saving her husband from the hands of death. The youngest son of King Hima was prophesied to die on the fourth night after his marriage.
However, his beautiful and devoted wife was determined to not let this happen. In order to save her husband, she lit hundreds of Diyas all over the house and placed all her golden and silver jewelry as well as all the money in the house near the doorstep.
She did not let her husband fall asleep and instead made him stay awake the entire night by narrating old mythological stories and Puranas and also singing devotional songs.
When Lord Yamaraj, the God of Death, arrived in the form of a snake to take the young man's life as was fated, he got distracted by the enormous heap of gold and silver accumulated at the doorstep.
The Diyas also blocked his vision as it was shining very brightly.
Thus, he ended up forgetting about the fated hour of the death as he was busy listening intently to her devotional songs and the young prince's life was spared.
Another significant Hindu Mythological tale associated with Dhanteras is the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is said that on this day Goddess Parvati played dice with her husband Lord Shiva and won.
This is significant for businessmen and traders today because it is said to bring good fortune.
Significance of Dhanteras
- Considered an auspicious time to invest in new ventures like stock market, real estate, and businesses.
- Buying gold, silver, and coins symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and good luck.
- Associated with fortune and the belief of attracting abundance into life.
- People perform Mahalakshmi and Kuber Puja to invite blessings of wealth and success.
- Lighting lamps for Yama Deepam is believed to protect families from negative or evil energies.
- Marks the beginning of Diwali festivities with prayers for happiness and prosperity.
- A day to remove obstacles and ensure smooth progress in personal and professional life.
Celebrating Dhanteras: Traditions And Customs
On Dhanteras, devotees offer prayers to Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kubera, the God of Wealth.
Each deity holds special significance, Lord Dhanvantari for good health, Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity, Lord Ganesha for wisdom, and Lord Kubera for abundance. Families perform special pujas to invite blessings into their homes.
Cleaning and Decoration of Homes
A major custom of Dhanteras is cleaning and decorating houses to welcome the divine.
It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits only those homes that are clean, bright, and positive.
Entrances are adorned with colorful rangoli designs, oil lamps, and lanterns, creating a festive and inviting atmosphere.
Buying Gold, Silver, and New Items
One of the most popular Dhanteras traditions is purchasing gold, silver, coins, or household items.
These purchases are considered highly auspicious and are believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and growth in the coming year. Markets are packed with people shopping for jewelry, utensils, and even appliances on this day.
Symbolic Footprints of Goddess Lakshmi
Families also draw tiny footprints near the doorstep to signify the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi into the house. This ritual is a symbolic gesture of welcoming prosperity and happiness into one’s life.
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