Dhanteras 2024: Date, Timings, Rituals, and Significance of the Auspicious Day
Introduction
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the beginning of the Diwali festival. It is celebrated on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik. Devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of health and well-being, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. This day is considered highly auspicious for buying gold, silver, and new utensils, symbolizing prosperity and fortune.
Dhanteras 2024 Date and Muhurat
Dhanteras Date: October 29, 2024
Trayodashi Tithi Begins: October 28, 2024, at 5:45 PM
Trayodashi Tithi Ends: October 29, 2024, at 3:30 PM
Best Time for Lakshmi Puja
Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: October 29, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
The pradosh kaal (early evening) is ideal for Dhanteras puja, as it is believed that Lakshmi visits homes to bless them with wealth and happiness.
Significance of Dhanteras
The term ‘Dhanteras’ is derived from two words: ‘Dhan’ meaning wealth, and ‘Teras’ referring to the thirteenth day. Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan on this day, carrying a pot of nectar (amrit), symbolizing good health and longevity.
Health and Prosperity: Devotees pray for well-being, health, and financial success.
Buying Precious Metals: Gold and silver purchases are believed to attract prosperity and fortune.
Welcoming Lakshmi: The day sets the tone for the Diwali celebrations, inviting wealth and positivity.
Rituals and Traditions of Dhanteras
- Cleaning and Decoration
Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangolis and flowers to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
Torans (door hangings) and diyas (lamps) are placed at entrances to invite positive energy. - Dhanteras Puja
Devotees light lamps and offer flowers, sweets, and coins to Lakshmi, Kuber (the god of wealth), and Dhanvantari.
Gold coins, silver utensils, or new household items are kept in the puja as a symbol of prosperity - Shopping for Gold, Silver, and Utensils
It is believed that buying precious metals or new items brings good fortune and wealth.
New utensils purchased on this day are often used to prepare sweets and dishes for Diwali. - Lighting Lamps and Diyas
Diyas are lit at entrances and around the house to dispel darkness and bring positive energy.
Lamps are also offered to Yama (the god of death) to seek protection from untimely death.
Why Do We Buy Gold on Dhanteras?
Buying gold, silver, or utensils on Dhanteras is not just a tradition but a spiritual practice believed to attract prosperity. The purchased items are considered lucky and are used during Lakshmi Puja, further amplifying their auspiciousness.
Origin of Dhanteras: The Legend of Samudra Manthan
According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean with a pot of nectar, symbolizing good health and vitality. The event marks the origin of Dhanteras, and hence, prayers are offered for both health and wealth on this day.
How to Celebrate Dhanteras at Home
- Clean and decorate your home with rangolis and flowers.
- Buy new utensils, gold, or silver, if possible.
- Perform Lakshmi puja during the pradosh kaal (evening).
- Light diyas at the entrance and offer prayers to Lord Dhanvantari.
- Prepare and share sweets with family and neighbors.
Dhanteras is more than just a shopping festival—it’s a day to express gratitude, invite wealth, and ensure good health for the coming year. By cleaning homes, lighting lamps, and performing puja, devotees align themselves with divine blessings, setting the stage for a prosperous Diwali.
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