Dhanteras Celebrating Wealth and Prosperity November 10, 2023
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodash, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. The word “Dhanteras” is a combination of two words: “Dhan,” which means wealth, and “Teras,” which means thirteen. This festival falls on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of the calendar. Traditionally, It occurs one to two days before Diwali, and in 2023, it will be celebrated on Friday, November 10th, one day prior to the Festival of Lights.
Traditions and Rituals
Dhanteras holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus, as it is a day filled with customs and rituals that signify the pursuit of wealth and prosperity. People traditionally purchase utensils and jewelry on this day as it is believed to bring good fortune. This custom is rooted in ancient tales and legends that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most popular stories associated with Dhanteras revolves around Lord Yamaraja, the God of Death. According to this tale, a king’s son’s horoscope predicted that he would meet his demise on the fourth day of his marriage due to a snakebite. Determined to change this tragic fate, the prince’s wife took matters into her own hands. On the fourth night of their marriage, she kept her husband awake by narrating captivating stories, ensuring he didn’t fall asleep.
To ward off the snake, she piled up all the family’s ornaments and coins at the entrance, creating a dazzling display. When the God of Death, disguised as a snake, approached, he was captivated by the glittering jewelry and coins. He became engrossed in the stories and songs narrated by the wife. As a result, the serpent chose to depart silently in the morning, sparing the prince’s life. This story highlights the power of love, devotion, and resourcefulness in changing one’s fate.
Another well-known legend is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the Gods and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He emerged from the ocean during the churning of the Milky Sea on the day of Dhanteras, bringing with him the knowledge of Ayurveda. Since then, It has been celebrated as one of the most auspicious and significant festivals for Hindus.
Table of Contents
The Dhanteras Celebrations
People also worship Lord Yamaraja, the God of Death, during the night and offer prayers to seek his blessings for the well-being of their families. It is a time when homes are thoroughly cleaned and beautifully decorated with lights and diyas to keep negative energy and evil forces at bay. These preparations are a precursor to the grand festival of Diwali.
This festival is not only about material wealth but also about spiritual and emotional prosperity. It encourages people to strengthen the bonds of love and togetherness with their families, just as the prince’s wife’s love and storytelling saved her husband from a tragic fate. The tale of Lord Dhanvantari emphasizes the importance of health and well-being, connecting the festival to the God of Ayurveda.
Quotes to Share on Dhanteras
To celebrate Dhanteras and share the spirit of the festival, consider sending these meaningful quotes to your loved ones:
- “On this auspicious occasion of Dhanteras, may there be an abundant shower of wealth in your life, and may the light of success cover your life beautifully. Happy Dhanteras!”
- “May this Dhanteras light up new dreams, fresh hopes, undiscovered avenues, and different perspectives, making everything bright and beautiful. May your days be filled with pleasant surprises and moments. Happy Dhanteras to you and your family.”
- “Adorn our lives, else trite, with sparklers that motley skies, as soaring spirits of powder wander. Let us thank the heavenly might in this festive season of lights.”
- “Dhanteras is the birth anniversary of the God of Ayurveda. On this day, a lamp for the God of death is lit outside the home so that any untimely death of family members can be avoided. We wish you a Happy and Prosperous Dhanteras.”
Puja and Rituals
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day-long Diwali festivities. It holds immense significance as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during the churning of the Milky Sea on this day. People worship Goddess Lakshmi, who is the embodiment of wealth, along with Lord Kubera, the God of wealth. However, it is important to note that Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya, which occurs two days after Dhanteras, is considered even more significant.
Lakshmi Puja should be performed during the Pradosh Kaal, which commences after sunset and lasts for approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes. It is recommended to avoid Choghadiya Muhurat for Dhanteras Puja, as those Muhurtas are primarily suitable for travel. The ideal time for Lakshmi Puja is during Pradosh Kaal, especially when Sthir Lagna prevails.
Sthir Lagna refers to a fixed, non-movable time period. Dhanteras Puja during Sthir Lagna is believed to ensure that Goddess Lakshmi will bless your home. Vrishabha Lagna is considered Sthir and often coincides with Pradosh Kaal during the Diwali festivities.
To perform Dhanteras Puja at the most auspicious time, it is crucial to note that the best Muhurat may vary by location. Therefore, it is recommended to identify the specific Muhurat for your city to ensure a successful and prosperous.
Apart from Lakshmi Puja, another ritual known as Yamadeep is observed on Trayodashi Tithi. During this ritual, a lamp is lit outside the home to ward off any untimely death of family members, seeking protection from the God of Death.
This is a festival that celebrates wealth, prosperity, and the triumph of love and devotion over fate. It is a time for families to come together, clean their homes, and light up their lives with the radiance of love and positivity. As we approach Dhanteras in 2023, let us embrace the spirit of this festival, worship the deities with devotion, and wish for a future filled with abundance and well-being for all. Happy Dhanteras.