Dhanteras 2023: Understanding the Significance of Dhanteras Celebration
Dhanteras, signaling the commencement of Diwali, falls on November 10, Friday, this year. This day is considered highly auspicious for acquiring gold, silver jewelry, utensils, and even electronics as a way of inviting Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera—symbols of wealth and prosperity in Hindu mythology—into one's home. Dhanteras, also known as Dhantryodashi, is celebrated on the 13th lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu calendar months of Ashvin or Kartika. The term "Dhanteras" is a fusion of two words: 'Dhan,' signifying wealth, and 'Teras,' indicating the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha. On this occasion, devotees perform puja rituals, venerating Goddess Lakshmi, Ganesha, Dhanvantari, and Lord Kubera. Additionally, the puja includes the worship of three forms of Goddess Lakshmi—Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Maha Lakshmi, and Goddess Maha Kaali.
Why is Dhanteras celebrated?
Dhanteras signifies a spiritual triumph and kicks off the five-day Diwali celebration. On this occasion, devotees engage in the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari—the deity associated with Ayurveda and health. The purpose is to seek blessings for wealth, prosperity, and overall well-being. According to Hindu mythology, those who offer prayers to Lord Dhanvantari during this festival are believed to find relief from various ailments and sufferings.
A popular legend related to Dhanteras narrates that Goddess Durga and Lord Kubera emerged from the ocean during the “Sagar Manthan” on this auspicious day of Trayodashi. It is said that during the churning of the ocean, or “Sagar Manthan,” when Devas and Asuras were in pursuit of the nectar or “Amrit,” Lord Dhanvantari emerged last.
On the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras, it is advised to refrain from purchasing certain items:
- Avoid acquiring sharp objects such as scissors, knives, and pins, as it is believed to attract bad luck to the family on this sacred day.
- Astrologers suggest steering clear of items made of iron, as it is believed that Lord Kuber, the god of wealth, may withhold his blessings from those who make such purchases during Dhanteras.
- Exercise caution with aluminum and plastic products, opting instead for articles made of metal to enhance auspiciousness.
- The color black is associated with bad luck on Dhanteras, so it is advisable to avoid buying anything in this hue.
- Glassware or items made of glass are considered inauspicious and should be avoided during the festive occasion.
- There is a customary practice of refraining from buying oil and ghee on Dhanteras. However, considering their essential role in the festival, astrologers recommend stocking up on these items in advance of the auspicious day.
12 April 2024
