Introduction to the Festival:
Dhanteras, also known as Dhan Trayodashi, marks the beginning of the grand Diwali festival. It is celebrated on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of the Kartika month. On this day, prayers are offered to Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kubera. It is considered auspicious to buy new utensils, jewelry, and metal items on this day, as it is believed to bring health, wealth, and prosperity into the home.
The Story Behind Dhanteras:
The most popular story associated with Dhanteras comes from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). When the gods and demons churned the ocean together, they brought out 14 precious items. Among them, the 13th item to emerge was Lord Dhanvantari, who appeared with an urn of nectar. This event took place on the 13th day of the Kartika month’s dark fortnight, which is celebrated as Dhanteras.
Another story goes that Yama, the god of death, once asked his messengers if they had ever felt pity while taking someone’s soul. One of the messengers shared that when they were sent to take the life of a newlywed young man, his wife’s heart-wrenching wail had softened their hearts. In response, Yama declared that anyone who lights a lamp in his name on Dhanteras night will be protected from untimely death.
Why We Celebrate This Festival:
Dhanteras is celebrated to pray for health, prosperity, and long life. On this day, worshiping Lord Dhanvantari is believed to grant a disease-free life, while prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera help in attaining wealth and abundance. Lighting a lamp in the name of Yama on this day is believed to protect one from untimely death.
Key Traditions of Dhanteras:
Shopping: It is considered auspicious to purchase new utensils, jewelry, and metal items on this day.
Worship: In the evening, prayers are offered to Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kubera.
Lighting Lamps: A lamp is lit in the name of Yama in the southern direction of the house on Dhanteras night.
Cleaning and Decoration: The house is thoroughly cleaned and decorated to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
Significance of the Festival:
Dhanteras is a significant festival for praying for health, prosperity, and longevity. The festival symbolizes positive energy, self-purification, and new beginnings. The rituals and traditions of Dhanteras promote peace, prosperity, and well-being in a person’s life.