Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanvantri Jayanti, is an auspicious Hindu festival celebrated two days before Diwali. This festival holds immense significance for followers of Hinduism, especially for those who are associated with business and wealth. The word “Dhanteras” is derived from the two Sanskrit words ‘Dhan’, meaning wealth, and ‘Teras’, signifying the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight.

Auspicious Date for Dhanteras 2023:
In 2023, Dhanteras falls on Friday, 13th October. This day is considered highly auspicious for purchasing gold, silver, utensils, or any other item associated with wealth, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good luck into the household.

Significance of Dhanteras:
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival and holds immense spiritual significance. Here are some key aspects of the significance of Dhanteras:

1. Worship of Goddess Lakshmi:
Dhanteras is primarily associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. People clean their homes and decorate them with colorful rangolis to welcome the goddess into their households.

2. Symbolism of Wealth:
On Dhanteras, it is customary to buy gold or silver items, new utensils, or anything that signifies wealth. This tradition is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune into the family.

3. Dhanvantari Jayanti:
Dhanteras also marks the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of Ayurveda and the physician of the gods. People pray to Lord Dhanvantari for good health and well-being on this day.

4. Warding off Evil:
Lighting lamps and diyas on Dhanteras is said to ward off negative energy and evil spirits from the surroundings. It is believed to bring positivity and harmony to the household.

5. Business Prosperity:
For business owners, Dhanteras holds great significance as it is believed that starting new ventures or making investments on this day brings success and prosperity.

Celebrations on Dhanteras:
Dhanteras is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor across India. Here are some common rituals and practices associated with this auspicious day:

1. Cleaning and Decoration:
People clean their homes and decorate them with colorful rangolis and flower garlands to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into their households.

2. Buying Gold and Utensils:
One of the key customs of Dhanteras is purchasing gold, silver, or utensils as a symbol of prosperity. This purchase is believed to bring wealth and good luck to the family.

3. Lighting Lamps:
Homes are adorned with diyas and oil lamps to illuminate every corner and ward off negative energies. It is also believed to attract blessings and prosperity.

4. Puja and Rituals:
Families perform elaborate puja ceremonies in the evening, offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari for wealth, health, and happiness.

5. Exchange of Gifts:
It is customary to exchange gifts and sweets with family and friends as a symbol of love and prosperity on Dhanteras.

FAQs about Dhanteras:

Q1: When is Dhanteras celebrated in 2023?
A1: Dhanteras will be celebrated on Friday, 13th October 2023.

Q2: What is the significance of buying gold on Dhanteras?
A2: Buying gold on Dhanteras is believed to bring prosperity and good luck into the household.

Q3: Who is worshipped on Dhanteras?
A3: Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari are predominantly worshipped on Dhanteras.

Q4: Why is it important to clean the house on Dhanteras?
A4: Cleaning the house is believed to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and invite prosperity into the home.

Q5: What are some traditional dishes prepared on Dhanteras?
A5: Some popular dishes prepared on Dhanteras include puri, halwa, kheer, and other sweets.

Dhanteras is a festival that symbolizes the celebration of wealth, prosperity, and happiness. It is a time for families to come together, worship the deities, and usher in positivity and good fortune into their lives. By following the customs and rituals associated with Dhanteras, one can invoke blessings for a prosperous and joyous year ahead.

Sumit