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Dhanteras: Welcoming prosperity on the first day of Diwali
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Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the first day of the five-day Diwali festival and is considered one of the most auspicious days in the Indian calendar. The term “Dhanteras” derives from two Sanskrit words: “Dhan” meaning wealth and “Teras” referring to the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight. This day holds deep-rooted mythological significance, especially associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Dhanvantari, the divine healer and god of Ayurveda. The traditions and rituals performed during Dhanteras are believed to invite good fortune, health, and well-being into one’s life.
Mythological significance
Dhanteras is celebrated with reverence to two prominent deities: Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that on this day, during the cosmic event known as Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean of milk), both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean.
Goddess Lakshmi, the epitome of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped on Dhanteras to welcome abundance into homes and businesses. It is believed that by invoking her blessings, people can attract material prosperity and financial well-being. Hence, on this day, devotees light oil lamps and place them at the entrances of their homes to dispel negativity and invite Lakshmi’s auspicious presence.
Lord Dhanvantari, regarded as the physician of the gods and the originator of Ayurveda, also emerged during the churning, holding a pot of amrita (the elixir of immortality). Thus, Dhanteras is associated with health and healing, signifying the importance of well-being in life. People seek his blessings for good health, and many Ayurvedic practitioners and institutions perform special rituals in his honor.
An auspicious day of purchasing
Dhanteras is deemed highly auspicious for making purchases that symbolise prosperity and good luck. It is traditional for people to buy gold, silver, or other precious metals, believing that these purchases will attract more wealth in the future. Gold and silver jewelry, coins, and household items are especially popular, as these metals are associated with the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
Another unique tradition is the purchase of brooms on Dhanteras. In some regions, brooms are bought to sweep away poverty and bad luck from the home, symbolising a fresh start for the coming year. This practice also underscores the day’s theme of cleansing and renewal. Afterall, every festival celebrates cleansing both at the physical and spiritual level.
Welcoming good fortune through cleaning
In preparation for Dhanteras and Diwali, people thoroughly clean their homes, shops, and surroundings. This custom is not just about physical cleanliness but also about creating a welcoming atmosphere for Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that she only enters clean and orderly spaces, where her blessings of wealth and happiness can flourish. Doorways and windows are often decorated with colorful rangolis and traditional designs to further attract auspicious energies.
The beginning of Diwali celebrations
As the first day of the Diwali festivities, Dhanteras sets the tone for the celebrations to come. Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Dhanteras initiates this five-day celebration, which culminates with the main Diwali day and then continues with Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj. The lighting of lamps on Dhanteras serves as a prelude to the grand illumination of Diwali, where homes, temples, and streets are adorned with countless twinkling lights.
A golden festival
Dhanteras is more than just a day of buying gold or cleaning homes; it is a celebration of prosperity, health, and spiritual renewal. With its deep connections to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, the day encourages people to embrace wealth in all its forms—material, spiritual, and physical. As the first day of the Diwali festivities, Dhanteras not only marks the beginning of a season of lights but also inspires a spirit of gratitude and well-being, paving the way for a joyous and prosperous year ahead.
