Dhanteras: The Auspicious Beginning of Diwali

As the twinkling diyas begin to light up our homes and marketplaces burst into shimmering gold and silver shades, one festival quietly marks the start of India’s biggest celebration, Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi. It’s the first day of the five-day Diwali festival, celebrated with devotion, prosperity, and a little bit of shopping! 

If there’s one day when the universe actually wants you to splurge, it’s Dhanteras! It’s the day when buying a new utensil or a gold coin is considered as lucky as finding money in your old jeans.  

So, what exactly is Dhanteras, and why does everyone suddenly turn into a gold enthusiast this time of year? Let’s dig in. 

What is Dhanteras? 

Dhanteras, also referred to as Dhanatrayodashi, occurs on the thirteenth day (Teras) of the dark fortnight of the Kartik month. 

The term "Dhan" refers to wealth, and "Teras" is the thirteenth day; collectively, it signifies the prosperity that sustains life, not only materially but also spiritually and physically. It's the official start to the five days of Diwali, representing cleansing and rebirth, scrubbing houses, lighting diyas, and the beginning of the Hindu new year with a newfound appreciation and gratitude. 

The Significance 

Historically, Dhanteras is the day on which we pay respect to Goddess Lakshmi, the bestower of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Dhanvantari, the heavenly physician who was born during the churning of the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthan) and was given a vessel of Amrit, the elixir of immortality. 

Thus, as we go shopping for gold coins, silver items, or just something new, the thought process is the same: to welcome prosperity and good health into our lives. 

Today, it might vary anywhere from cautiously investing but also the thoughtful choices we make regarding our physical and mental well-being. True wealth isn't solely defined by what you possess; it's about living wisely and cultivating a well-rounded, fulfilling life. 

The Lore Behind Dhanteras 
 

The Legend of Lord Dhanvantari 

As per Hindu mythology, on the churning of the ocean of milk by demons and gods, fourteen divine spoils were born. Among them was Lord Dhanvantari, carrying the vessel of Amrit. His birth is commemorated as Dhanteras, a reminder that health is truly the biggest wealth. 

The Story of King Hima's Son 

Another well-known tale describes a prince who was to die of a snake bite on his fourth night of his wedding. His bride, not wanting him to die, lit the room with hundreds of diyas, spread all their jewels and gold, and sang and told stories to keep him awake. 

When the god of death, Yama, came in the guise of a serpent, he was blinded by the shining lights and gold. Unable to get in, he went away quietly. 

Since then, lighting diyas and purchasing precious metals have become symbols of protection, good luck, and the victory of wisdom over destiny. 

That’s why people light diyas and buy gold, to keep darkness and bad luck away. 

Celebrating Dhanteras 

Dhanteras today symbolizes a beautiful union of custom and contemporary festivities. The following are a few of the day's unique features:  

• Cleaning and Decorating: Houses are thoroughly cleaned and decorated, with rangoli-adorned floors, toran-draped doors, and lights hung to greet Goddess Lakshmi.
• Purchasing gold or silver: It is believed that even a single coin can bring wealth and success. 
• Lighting of Diyas: To honour Yama and protect the family, diyas are lit at doorways in the evening. 
• Lakshmi Puja: Additionally, worshippers will offer sacrifices, sweets, and prayers for prosperity and health to honour Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi. 

More Than Gold and Glitter 

Ultimately, Dhanteras is a reminder that prosperity is not only about money, but about health, appreciation, and rebirth. It's the time when we take a moment to think, unclutter (literally and mentally), and welcome positivity, in whatever form it may appear. 

Whether you're purchasing a gold coin, a new gadget, or just lighting one diya, do it with purpose. Because Dhanteras is more than a day on the calendar, it's an attitude that says: may my life be rich in light, laughter, and good health. 

Dhanteras connects the ancient with the modern, reminding us that true wealth never goes out of fashion. It's the glint before Diwali, the benediction before the light, and the ideal reason to fete plenty, in every sense of the word.