As the Diwali festivities commence, Dhanteras is celebrated as the first day of this vibrant five-day festival, observed this year today, i.e. October 29, 2024. Known as Dhantrayodashi, this auspicious day is deeply rooted in the Hindu traditions of worship, prosperity, and well-being. On Dhanteras, devotees pray to Lord Kuber, the deity of wealth, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, to invite fortune and abundance into their lives.
The Historical and Cultural Roots of Dhanteras
The term Dhanteras is derived from two Sanskrit words Dhan, meaning wealth, and Teras, signifying the thirteenth day. Celebrated on the 13th day of Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu lunar month of Kartika, Dhanteras has a deep-seated historical and cultural background that dates back to ancient times.
On this day, the focus shifts to prayers for prosperity and good health. Devotees pay homage to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, whose emergence from the ocean is believed to have brought divine healing and well-being. The tradition of worshipping Dhanvantari underscores the cultural reverence for physical wellness, healing, and the timeless science of Ayurveda.
Religious Significance A Day of Divine Worship
The religious significance of Dhanteras lies in its dedication to both wealth and health. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Dhanvantari for physical well-being and seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and abundance. Traditionally, people light lamps outside their homes during Sandhya (evening) to invite divine protection from Lord Yama, the god of death, who is believed to guard family members from untimely death. This ritual, known as Deepdan, holds a unique place in the Dhanteras celebrations as it embodies the hope for long life and safety.
Buying gold, silver, and jewelry on Dhanteras has become customary, symbolizing good luck and financial security. This practice, rooted in tradition, is believed to bring prosperity and honor Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings.
Dhanteras 2024 A Day to Celebrate Prosperity and Health
In 2024, Dhanteras will be observed on Tuesday, October 29, as per the Drik Panchang. Households across India will light earthen lamps and decorate entrances with vibrant rangolis to honor the gods. The lighting of diyas on this auspicious day is thought to drive away negative energy and fill homes with light, symbolizing the triumph of prosperity and health over poverty and sickness.
Dhanteras has grown beyond mere ritual; it has become a symbol of cultural identity and tradition, encouraging people to embrace the values of health, happiness, and wealth. As this special day unfolds, it reminds all of us of the importance of gratitude, giving, and the blessings that light up our lives each Diwali season.