Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the first day of Diwali—your official cue to bring in all the good vibes, wealth, and health! Happening on the thirteenth lunar day of Ashvin or Kartika, it’s when the festive season gets real, with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari blessing us with prosperity and wellness. So let’s see why we celebrate the festival.
आप सभी को धनतेरस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं।
माँ लक्ष्मी की कृपा से सभी के जीवन में शांति, सुख-समृद्धि और धन-धान्य का वास हो, यही प्रार्थना है।#Dhanteras pic.twitter.com/TIePklaG0f
— Elvish Army (Fan Account) (@elvisharmy) October 29, 2024
Lakshmi’s ocean moment
Legend has it, Lakshmi—aka the goddess of wealth and abundance—emerged from the churning ocean, holding a golden pot. Worshipping her on Dhanteras sets the tone for Diwali, inviting that blingy, prosperous energy into your life. Lakshmi Puja is the main event, complete with diyas, sweets, and flowers to make sure your year ahead is filled with prosperity.
Dhanvantari’s health and wellness boost
Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, is the other big star of Dhanteras. Known for bringing the nectar of immortality, he’s honoured for all things health-related. Worshipping him is about inviting well-being and balance, adding that extra layer to the festival—because what’s wealth without health, right?
Shopping for good fortune
Dhanteras traditions include buying gold, silver, or even new utensils to amp up the lucky vibes. These purchases are seen as super auspicious, believed to multiply the wealth and good fortune for the whole year. So yes, splurging on bling is part of the tradition! Alongside the shopping spree, people decorate their homes with rangolis, lights, and flour-paste footprints, which welcome Lakshmi into their homes.
Kubera, the OG of wealth
Alongside Lakshmi, Kubera, the god of wealth, is celebrated as a financial guide. While Lakshmi brings wealth, Kubera symbolises responsible spending and wise investments—basically, the ultimate money mentor who reminds you to manage what you’ve got! His presence emphasises that Dhanteras is as much about accumulating wealth as it is about handling it wisely.
Symbolism of prosperity
Lakshmi and Kubera together bring balance to Dhanteras, where material wealth meets spiritual well-being. The festival is a reminder that prosperity isn’t just about money but also about harmony and happiness. Dhanteras encourages us to seek not only financial stability but also to appreciate what we have, setting the tone for a fulfilling Diwali season.
So, bring on the bling, stock up on prosperity, and get ready to kick off Diwali with all the festive feels! Dhanteras gives you the perfect excuse to be extra, embracing both wealth and wisdom in proper festive vibe!
This year, we are celebrating Dhanteras today, i.e. October 29, 2024.