As the air fills with the fragrance of marigolds and homes sparkle with freshly cleaned lamps, Hindus around the world prepare for one of the most auspicious days of the year, Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi. Marking the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations, Dhanteras is more than just a festival of wealth; it’s a celebration of gratitude, well-being, and divine blessings.
The word “Dhanteras” comes from “Dhan”, meaning wealth, and “Teras”, meaning the thirteenth day. On this sacred evening, devotees across India light their homes with diyas, decorate doorways with colourful rangoli, and perform rituals to invite Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, into their homes.
Story of Dhanteras
The origins of Dhanteras trace back to ancient Hindu mythology, particularly the Samudra Manthan, or churning of the cosmic ocean. According to the scriptures, when the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean in search of amrit (the nectar of immortality), several divine treasures emerged. Among them were Goddess Lakshmi, the symbol of wealth and fortune, and Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician carrying the pot of nectar.
Thus, Dhanteras is celebrated to honour both Goddess Lakshmi, who brings wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, who blesses devotees with health and longevity. In many households, Lord Kubera, the god of treasures, is also worshipped for prosperity and abundance.
Rituals and Beliefs
The evening of Dhanteras is believed to be the most auspicious time to perform the Lakshmi Puja. Families clean their homes thoroughly, light diyas at the entrance, and draw beautiful rangoli patterns to welcome the goddess. Oil lamps are lit throughout the night to drive away negative energies.
A popular belief associated with Dhanteras is that buying new items, especially gold, silver, or utensils, brings good luck and prosperity. Even small symbolic purchases like brooms, brass lamps, or copper vessels are considered lucky, as they signify cleanliness and light, two qualities that invite Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings.
Another beautiful ritual involves lighting a diya at the main entrance to honour Yamraj, the god of death, ensuring protection and safety for the family.
Wishing Prosperity and Positivity
Dhanteras also brings people together through warmth and celebration. Friends and families exchange heartfelt messages like:
- “May Goddess Lakshmi bless your home with wealth, health, and happiness.”
- “Let the diyas of Dhanteras bring light, success, and abundance into your life.”
- “May every coin you earn multiply into prosperity and peace.”
From heartfelt WhatsApp greetings to festive social media posts, the essence of Dhanteras lies in sharing joy and positivity. It’s not just about buying gold or decorating homes, it’s about embracing new beginnings and expressing gratitude for the blessings we already have.
Dhanteras is more than a celebration of material wealth; true prosperity lies in good health, strong relationships, and inner peace. As diyas flicker in every corner of the home and chants of Lakshmi Puja echo through the night, this festival marks a time for renewal, reflection, and gratitude.
May this Dhanteras 2025 bring golden moments, glowing hearts, and a future filled with abundance, health, and happiness for all.
Happy Dhanteras 2025! May your life shine brighter than gold and your heart glow with endless joy.