Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the first day of the Diwali festival and is celebrated with great enthusiasm as it brings blessings of wealth and prosperity. Observed during the Trayodashi Tithi, this day is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Kubera, the god of treasures. As per Hindu beliefs, this day commemorates the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi from the ocean during the legendary churning of the Milky Sea.
Dhanteras 2024 Date: When is Dhanteras? Know Shubh Muhurat, Rituals and Significance
Dhanteras Puja is best performed during Pradosh Kaal, the time after sunset that lasts approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes. This period is most auspicious when combined with Sthir Lagna (a fixed, stable ascendant) which, according to Hindu beliefs, invites Goddess Lakshmi to stay in the household, ensuring continuous prosperity. Vrishabha Lagna, known as the fixed ascendant, usually overlaps with Pradosh Kaal during Diwali, making it an ideal time for the puja.
Note: Avoid performing the Dhanteras Puja during Choghadiya Muhurat, as these timings are considered beneficial mainly for travel rather than ritualistic worship. To determine the precise Dhanteras Puja timing in your location, consult a regional panchang or a reliable website.
Dhanteras 2024 Shopping Guide: Beyond Gold and Silver – What to Buy for Good Fortune
Dhanteras Puja Vidhi: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simple and easy-to-follow guide for performing the Dhanteras Puja at home:
1. Prepare the Puja Area
- Clean the main entrance and your puja room to invite positivity and prosperity.
- Draw small rangoli designs at the doorsteps, symbolising welcome.
- Place a diya (lamp) filled with oil or ghee at the entrance to signify protection and ward off negativity.
2. Set Up the Puja Altar
- Place idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera on a clean, decorated altar.
- Arrange a small plate with fresh flowers, vermilion (kumkum), rice, and turmeric.
- Keep coins or other symbols of wealth, as these represent the essence of prosperity worship on this day.
3. Performing the Puja
- Begin the puja with a simple prayer to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
- Offer flowers, rice, and sweets to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera.
- Chant a short Lakshmi mantra or a prayer dedicated to the goddess of wealth.
- Light incense and perform a small aarti, moving the aarti plate in a circular motion before the deities as a sign of reverence and respect.
4. Lighting the Yamadeep (Yamadeepdan)
- As part of Dhanteras, many families observe the tradition of Yamadeepdan, which involves lighting an earthen lamp outside the home. This lamp, dedicated to Yama, the god of death, is believed to protect family members from untimely demise.
- Place the lit lamp at your doorstep or outside in the southern direction, praying for the family’s health and well-being.
5. Purchase of New Items
- Dhanteras is considered highly auspicious for buying gold, silver, or household items as they signify prosperity. It is believed that making these purchases attracts good fortune.
Dhanvantari Jayanti: Significance
Dhanteras is also observed as Dhanvantari Jayanti, dedicated to Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda. Dhanvantari, who appeared during the churning of the ocean with the pot of nectar, symbolises health and longevity. Many families offer a simple prayer for good health and well-being, thanking Dhanvantari for his blessings of healing and wellness.
Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi is a festival brimming with symbolism, where each ritual is performed with intent and devotion to attract wealth, health, and happiness into the home. From the sacred Abhyang Snan (oil bath) in the early hours to the evening Yamadeep ritual, Dhanteras brings a wave of positive energy, preparing households for the vibrant Diwali celebrations that follow. With the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, may Dhanteras 2024 fill your home with peace, prosperity, and lasting joy.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
