Dhanteras 2024 : Why this Day is Key for Lakshmi Pujan and Diwali Festivities

Diwali is right around the corner, and this time of festivities will start with the festival of Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi. It falls on the 13th day of the Hindu lunar calendar, which is why it’s called “Teras’ while the word "Dhan" translates to wealth. Hence, the day is all about celebrating prosperity, good health, and well-being.

In this blog, we will learn more about Dhanteras and why it is one of the auspicious days for Lakshmi puja.

When is Dhanteras 2024?

This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on 29th October, Tuesday. Here are the important Muhurats for the day:

On dhanteras, many people buy gold, silver, or new household items because it’s believed to bring good fortune. But it’s not just about material wealth. It’s a day to invite both health and happiness into your home. 

Legends Associated with Dhanteras

According to the legends, when devas (gods) and asuras (demons) performed Samundra Manthan (the churning of the ocean) to attain Amrit (elixir of life), Lord Dhanvantari, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the god of medicine and Ayurveda, appeared from the ocean carrying a pot of the nectar of immortality on Dhanteras.

Because of this, dhanteras is also dedicated to good health and healing. Many people offer prayers to Lord Dhanvantari, asking for protection against illnesses and blessings for a healthy life.

In another story, Goddess Laxmi is believed to have emerged during Samundra Manthan as a beautiful, young lady, holding a pot full of gold coins and other treasures on the day of Dhanteras. Hence, the ritual of Shree Laxmi puja honoring the goddess of wealth and prosperity is performed on Dhanteras. On this day, people clean and decorate their homes with diyas to attract the blessings of Maa Lakshmi into their homes. 

Why Do People Buy Gold and Silver on dhanteras?

If you’ve ever noticed how packed the jewelry stores are on dhanteras, there’s a reason for that! It’s considered extremely lucky to buy gold, silver, or new utensils on this day. These items are seen as symbols of wealth and prosperity, and purchasing them is believed to bring good luck for the entire year.

Even if you don’t have the budget to go for something hefty, you can even consider to buying something small like a silver coin or even a spoon. In the end, it's all about your sentiment behind it that matters.

How to Prepare for Lakshmi Pujan on dhanteras?

Dhanteras is basically the beginning of the 5-day festival of Diwali event, and all the preparations for the big day start here. 

One of the biggest traditions is cleaning the house thoroughly. Think of it as a fresh start. A clean, tidy home is believed to attract positive energy, and more importantly, it invites Goddess Lakshmi to stay.

Apart from cleaning, people also decorate their homes with rangolis made using colored powders or flower petals and light diyas. These little earthen lamps are placed all around the house to drive away darkness and negativity. 

In the evening, families gather to perform a simple puja (prayer ceremony) for Maa Dhanlaxmi. Some also worship their newly purchased items whether it’s gold, silver, or utensils as a way of expressing gratitude and hoping for more abundance in the coming year.

Also Read : Durga Visarjan 2024 : Tradition, Timings, and Environmental Impact

Takeaway

Dhanteras marks the start of Diwali’s festive energy. It sets the vibe for everything that’s to come – family gatherings, sweets, gifts, and of course, the grand Lakshmi Pujan on Diwali night. On this day, we not only focus on material wealth but also invite good health, happiness, and positivity into our lives. And no matter whether you’re buying something new, cleaning your home, or simply lighting a small diya, it’s all about opening yourself up to the prosperity and joy the festival of lights brings.

Happy Dhanteras! May your day be filled with love, light, and laughter!