Dhanteras: Welcoming Wealth and Prosperity

Dhanteras, also known as Dhanvantri Trayodashi or Dhanwantri Triyodhashi, is the first major festival celebrated before the grand Diwali celebrations. It falls on the thirteenth day (trayodashi) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Kartik month, usually in October or November. Dhanteras literally translates to 'the thirteenth day of wealth' and is considered an auspicious occasion for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.

Significance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras holds a special place in Hinduism for a few reasons:

• Birth of Dhanvantari: According to a belief, Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda and physician to the Gods, emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) with a pot of Amrita (elixir of immortality) on this day. People pray to Dhanvantari for good health and a long life.

• Welcoming Lakshmi: Dhanteras marks the beginning of welcoming Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, into homes. People clean and decorate their houses to attract Goddess Lakshmi's blessings.

• Buying New Utensils and Metals: Dhanteras is considered an auspicious day to buy new utensils and jewelry made from metals like gold, silver, brass, and steel. It's believed that buying new metals on this day brings wealth, prosperity, and good luck.

• Yamadeepdaan: In some regions, people light a special lamp called Yamadeep outside their main door. This is believed to appease Yama, the God of Death, and ward off untimely deaths.

Celebrating Dhanteras

There are several ways you can celebrate Dhanteras:

• Cleaning and Decorating Your Home: Give your home a thorough cleaning and decorate it with rangolis (colorful floor patterns) and lamps.
• Prayers and Puja: Perform puja (worship rituals) for Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi at your home temple or puja place.
• Buying Metal Items: Purchase new utensils or jewelry made from gold, silver, or other metals of your choice.
• Importance of Giving: Donating to the needy is considered auspicious on Dhanteras. You can earn good karma by giving to charity.
• Sharing Happiness with Family: Enjoy sweets and celebrate the festival with your loved ones.

Dhanteras is not just about welcoming wealth and prosperity, but also about seeking good health and good fortune. It's a time to share happiness with your family and celebrate together.