Dhanteras is the first and very auspicious day of the Diwali festival celebrated across India. It falls on the thirteenth lunar day (Trayodashi) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Ashwin (October–November). The day is dedicated to wealth, prosperity, and well-being, especially worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi.

🕉️ Spiritual Significance

Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations and is associated with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and god of Ayurveda, who is believed to have emerged from the ocean with the nectar of immortality (Amrit) on this day. It is also a day to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, to invite prosperity and good fortune into homes and businesses.

🙏 Dhanteras Puja Rituals

  • Cleaning and Decorating Homes:
    • Homes and workplaces are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with rangoli, flowers, and diyas (oil lamps) to welcome prosperity.
  • Buying Auspicious Items:
    • It is considered highly auspicious to buy gold, silver, utensils, or new tools/money on this day as a symbol of wealth and good luck.
  • Lighting Lamps:
    • Lighting of lamps outside and inside the home to ward off evil spirits and attract positive energy.
  • Puja Setup:
    • The puja altar is arranged with idols or images of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi.
    • Kalash (sacred pot), coins, sweets, flowers, and incense sticks are placed as offerings.
  • Chanting Mantras and Aarti:
    • Devotees chant mantras such as:
      • “Om Dhanvantre Namaha” (for Lord Dhanvantari)
      • “Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namah” (for Goddess Lakshmi)
    • Aarti is performed with devotion, accompanied by bhajans.
  • Offering Prasad and Charity:
    • Sweets and fruits are offered and later shared with family and friends.
    • Charity and helping the needy are encouraged to attract blessings.

🌼 Message of Dhanteras

Dhanteras symbolizes wealth in all forms—material, health, and spiritual prosperity. It encourages gratitude, mindfulness in financial matters, and the pursuit of well-being with faith and devotion.