Dhanteras marks the onset of Diwali’s 5-day celebration, falling on the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha in Ashwin month. This year, the auspicious festival will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 28, 2024. On this day, people follow the age-old tradition of buying and giving metal items like gold and silver to loved ones and worshipping goddess Lakshmi, aimed at attracting wealth and prosperity in their lives.
To welcome positive energy, homes and businesses are cleaned and decorated with vibrant rangoli designs. Some people light diyas and place them at their doorsteps to dispel negativity and darkness. Families usually perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening, offering sweets and flowers in the hope of receiving blessings for prosperity. Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali, fostering happiness and a spirit of togetherness.
As the auspicious day is almost here, let us delve into its vibrant history and rituals celebrated across the country.
History Of Dhanteras
There are two popular stories rooted in mythology that shaped the auspicious day of Dhanteras. The first story is linked to the Hindu god Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, who is revered during Dhanteras. According to legends, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Lord Dhanvantari emerged with a pot of amrita, the nectar of immortality. As he appeared on the 13th day of Kartik month, devotees celebrate Dhanteras to honour him and seek his blessings for optimal health and well-being.
Another popular story is about the son of King Hima, who according to mythology, was destined to die but his devoted wife cleverly thwarted Yama, the god of death. By placing gold and silver near her husband and illuminating their home with oil lamps, she created a dazzling display that distracted Yama, sparing the prince's life. This ancient tale inspires the Dhanteras tradition of purchasing gold and silver and lighting lamps to repel darkness and misfortune.
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Dhanteras Rituals Celebrated Across India
Across India, Dhanteras festivities unfold with vibrant regional traditions. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, lively fairs resound with music and dance, while businessmen open new accounting books and homes adorned with intricate rangolis. Meanwhile, Bengal and Odisha celebrate with sweet exchanges and gift-giving, accompanied by purchases of new items. In Madhya Pradesh, locals observe unique customs and rituals to invite prosperity and well-being into their homes.
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