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.
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