Dhanteras – History, Significance, Rituals, and What to Buy for an Auspicious Start to Diwali

Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is one of the most celebrated and awaited festivals in India. It marks the first day of the five-day Diwali festivities and is considered an auspicious occasion for buying valuables, starting new ventures, and inviting prosperity into the home.

The word Dhanteras comes from two Sanskrit words—Dhan, meaning wealth, and Teras, referring to the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Kartik. For millions of people, this day is not just about shopping—it’s about faith, blessings, and the hope of a brighter future.

On this day, people greet each other with wishes of Happy Dhanteras, exchange sweets, light lamps, and make purchases that are believed to bring good fortune.

Why is Dhanteras Celebrated?

If you are wondering why is Dhanteras celebrated, the answer lies in a mix of mythology, health traditions, and the cultural importance of wealth.

1. The Legend of Lord Dhanvantari

Hindu scriptures describe the grand Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) by the gods (devas) and demons (asuras) to obtain Amrit—the nectar of immortality. During this cosmic event, Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, emerged from the ocean carrying a pot of Amrit and healing herbs.

His appearance on this day symbolizes health, longevity, and well-being, making Dhanteras a day for both wealth and health.

2. The Story of King Hima

Another famous Dhanteras story is about King Hima’s 16-year-old son. According to his horoscope, he was destined to die from a snake bite on the fourth day after his marriage. On that night, his clever wife placed gold ornaments and silver coins at the doorway and lit hundreds of lamps to block the path of Yama, the god of death. She kept her husband awake by telling stories and singing songs.

When Yama arrived disguised as a snake, the dazzling light from the lamps and precious metals blinded him, and he left quietly. This is why lighting lamps and buying gold or silver on Dhanteras is considered to ward off evil.

3. Goddess Lakshmi’s Visit

Another belief says Goddess Lakshmi roams the Earth on Dhanteras night, blessing homes that are clean, decorated, and well-lit. This is why families engage in deep cleaning, rangoli making, and decorating entrances to welcome her.

Dhanteras Story – More Than a Myth

The Dhanteras story is more than just a set of legends—it’s a cultural lesson. Lord Dhanvantari’s emergence teaches the value of health, while King Hima’s tale emphasizes preparedness, wisdom, and the power of positive action.

In villages, elders narrate these stories to children, ensuring the spirit of the festival is passed on. In cities, these stories are often shared through social media greetings, family gatherings, and school activities.

Things to Buy on Dhanteras

Shopping is at the heart of Dhanteras celebrations. It’s believed that what you buy on this day multiplies over time, bringing luck and prosperity. Here are the most auspicious things to buy on Dhanteras:

1. Gold and Silver

The most traditional choice—gold and silver coins, bars, or jewelry. Many prefer coins engraved with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.

2. Utensils

Brass, copper, and silver utensils are considered lucky. Modern households also include stainless steel items.

3. Lakshmi & Ganesha Idols

Bought for the Diwali Lakshmi Puja, these idols are often made of clay, brass, or silver.

4. Brooms

In some traditions, a new broom symbolizes sweeping away poverty and negativity.

5. Electronics & Appliances

Modern families invest in gadgets, kitchen appliances, and even vehicles.

6. Gemstones

Astrologically recommended stones are bought for long-term wealth and well-being.

What to Buy on Dhanteras for Good Luck

If you are thinking what to buy on Dhanteras to invite luck, the following are considered most auspicious:

• Gold coins with Goddess Lakshmi’s image.
• Silver Kalash or Puja Thali.
• Utensils filled with grains (symbol of abundance).
• Business tools for traders and entrepreneurs.
• Clothes or fabrics in bright, festive colors.

Avoid buying items made of black material or anything associated with mourning.

Rituals and Customs

Dhanteras celebrations start in the morning with cleaning and decorating homes. By evening, the atmosphere is festive with lights, rangolis, and devotional songs.

Key rituals include:

• Dhanvantari Puja for health.
• Lighting 13 lamps in the evening to honor Yama and protect the household.
• Offering sweets and flowers to Goddess Lakshmi.
• Business accounting rituals in Gujarat (Chopda Pujan).

Regional Variations

Different parts of India celebrate Dhanteras in unique ways:

• North India – Focus on gold, silver, and Lakshmi Puja.
• Maharashtra – Buying utensils filled with rice and grains.
• Gujarat – New account books are opened for prosperity.
• South India – Known as Dhanvantari Trayodashi, focusing on Ayurveda and health.

Modern-Day Dhanteras

Today, Dhanteras shopping isn’t limited to physical markets—online portals offer exclusive Happy Dhanteras deals on everything from jewelry to electronics. Digital gold, e-wallet offers, and festive sales have made the festival accessible to younger generations in new ways.

Astrology-Based Buying Recommendations

Some people consult astrologers to choose purchases based on their zodiac sign:

• Aries – Gold jewelry.
• Taurus – Silver utensils.
• Gemini – Electronics and gadgets.
• Cancer – Kitchen items.
• Leo – Designer clothes and ornaments.
• Virgo – Gemstones.

Dos and Don’ts on Dhanteras

Dos:

• Buy metals like gold, silver, or brass.
• Light diyas in the evening, especially facing south.
• Keep your home clean and well-lit.

Don’ts:

• Avoid buying black items or sharp objects.
• Don’t lend or borrow money.
• Avoid purchases related to mourning rituals.

Economic Impact

Dhanteras is a high-sales day for jewelers, utensil makers, electronics sellers, and online marketplaces. The festival boosts the economy, supporting artisans, shopkeepers, and modern retail.

Happy Dhanteras – Wishes for Loved Ones

Wishing Happy Dhanteras is more than a greeting—it’s a blessing. Common wishes include:

• May Goddess Lakshmi bless you with wealth and health.
• May your life shine as brightly as the Dhanteras diyas.
• May you have success in all your endeavors.

Conclusion

Dhanteras is not just a shopping day—it’s a beautiful blend of mythology, tradition, and modern celebration. Whether you follow the Dhanteras story of Lord Dhanvantari or King Hima, or simply enjoy the spirit of buying and blessing, the essence remains the same: to welcome prosperity, health, and happiness into your life.

So, this year, when you decide what to buy on Dhanteras, let it be something meaningful, blessed, and filled with good intentions. May Goddess Lakshmi light up your home with abundance and may you and your loved ones enjoy a joyous Happy Dhanteras.