The festival of lights, Diwali is almost here! Dhanteras, which marks the beginning of the five days Diwali festivities, will be celebrated on November 10 this year. Dhanteras, also called "Dhanatrayodashi" or "
Dhanvantari Trayodashi
," is an important Hindu festival that is celebrated on the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha in Kartik month, as per the Hindu calendar.
It generally falls in October or November as per the Gregorian calendar.
The word "Dhanteras" is made up of two Sanskrit words: "Dhana" meaning wealth, and "Teras" meaning the 13th day. On this auspicious day, Hindus worship Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda who emerged from Samudra Manthan (the churning of the cosmic ocean) in Hindu mythology, bearing Amrit or the nectar of immortality. Dhanteras is also associated with worshipping of Goddess Lakshmi, as it is believed that on this day the Lakshmiji visits homes and blesses people for wealth and prosperity.
As per traditions, people generally buy gold, silver, new utensils, etc on this auspicious day as it symbolises wealth and prosperity. The favourable time for purchasing valuables on Dhanteras this year is between 2:35 pm to 6:40 pm, while the puja muhurat is between 5:47 pm till 7:43 pm.
Here we list down some things which people cam buy on Dhanteras:
1. Gold and silver
Buying gold and silver jewellery or coins on Dhanteras is a popular Hindu tradition. It is believed that buying gold on silver on this auspicious day brings wealth and prosperity into the household.
2. Utensils
Buying new kitchen utensils on Dhanteras symbolizes the enhancement of prosperity and abundance in the kitchen and household. However, astrologer
Nistha Verma
shares that one must not buy utensils made of iron. In fact, steel is also not considered very auspicious as it is also a form of iron. Instead, you should look for copper and brass utensils on Dhanteras.
Another thing one must keep in mind while bringing home new utensils is that the utensils should not be empty, as per astrologer Nistha Verma. She explains, "It is believed that one should not take empty utensils or pots at home. So fill your empty utensils with water before taking it inside your house."
3. Appliances and gadgets
In modern times, many people also choose to invest in new home appliances or expensive gadgets to make their lives more comfortable and efficient.
4. Vehicles
In today's day and age, some people also consider Dhanteras as an auspicious time to buy vehicles, like cars or motorcycles, as it is believed to bring success in journeys and endeavors. Sharing her expertise on this, astrologer Nistha Verma says, "Since Dhanteras is an auspicious day to buy things, many people buy cars on this day. However, it is advised one should make the payment a day before to maintain positivity in the house."
5. Broom
If purchasing expensive items on Dhanteras is out of your budget, then worry not. People can also purchase broom on this day as it is considered lucky. Buying a broom on Dhanteras signifies the removal of financial worries regarding one's home.
Meanwhile, here Nistha Verma-- Astrology expert from All India Institute of Occult Science and True Vastu founded by Chairman Gurudev Shrie Kashyap, shares the things you should never do or keep on Dhanteras to make the occasion more auspicious:
1. Minimal use of oil/ ghee
Since it would be near-to-impossible not to use oil on Dhanteras, people are advised not to fetch oil or keep the use of cooking oil/ ghee to minimum.
2. Avoid all that is black on Dhanteras
Anything that is of the colour black should be avoided on Dhantaras, as it is associated with bad luck.
3. Items made of glass
Glassware or items made of glass are also considered inauspicious to buy on this day. It is also associated with many myths in India.
4. Sharp objects
Buying sharp objects like knives, scissors, pins, and other sharp objects is believed to bring bad luck to the family. So don't buy these items on Dhanteras.
5. Exchange of gifts
It is okay to buy or give gifts a day before Dhanteras, but not on the day on the day of Dhanteras. The reason: It is believed that this can give away positive vibes and your good fortune.
6. Do not lend money
Do not give money to anyone on this day. Avoid activities like paying back loans on this day or borrowing money from others.
7. Don't buy plastic or broken items
It is advised not to bring plastic items, fallen or broken items, and slippers into the house on the day of Dhanteras. These items are believed to bring bad luck and disturb the flow of money in the house.
Here's wishing you all a prosperous Dhanteras and a very happy Diwali! Diwali is a reminder of the victory of good over evil or light overcoming darkness. And so, may the light always shine bright!
