What Does Dhanteras Signify?; A Tradition Beyond Silver And Gold

Dhanteras, traditionally celebrated as a day of wealth of prosperity goes beyond the purchase of gold and silver. This festival marks the start of diwali and has a deeper meaning with India's cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.

The Story Behind The Tradition:

According to an ancient legend, there was a king named Hima who had a son. Astrologers had foretold that the prince would die on the fourth day of his marriage due to a snake bite. But on that  day, his courageous wife decided to turn the destiny. She did not allow her husband to sleep; instead, they both stayed awake through the night while she kept him engaged with stories. To protect him further, she placed a heap of gold coins and ornaments at the entrance of their room and lit several lamps around it, creating a glow to distract the serpent. That night, it is believed that Yamaraj, the God of Death, appeared in the form of a serpent. However, the intense light from the lamps and the shimmering gold drew his attention. The serpent climbed the pile, mesmerized by her stories and songs, and stayed there, missing the moment to take the prince’s life. When the auspicious hour of death passed, Yamaraj silently departed, leaving the prince alive. This is why Dhanteras is celebrated: people buy gold or precious metals and pray to Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and protection.

Laxmi's Journey To Earth: 

According to Indian mythology, Lord Vishnu advised Goddess Lakshmi to avoid earthly attractions. However, she was drawn to a farmer's sugarcane field. Upset by this, Lord Vishnu declared that Lakshmi would work in the farmer’s field for 12 years. During this time, the farmer’s prosperity grew, bringing him wealth and good fortune. Eventually, Goddess Lakshmi revealed her true identity and, moved by the farmer's love and devotion, promised to return each year on Dhanteras. She requested him to keep his home clean and light a lamp for her—a tradition that continues with Lakshmi Puja after sunset.

Blessings of Lord Kuber:

Lord Kuber, symbolizing wealth, is also worshipped during Dhanteras. On this day, people purchase precious metals like gold and silver or other valuables as offerings to honor him. It's believed that buying items on Dhanteras can multiply wealth up to 13 times. Purchasing metals or valuables on this auspicious day is thought to invite Lord Kuber’s blessings for wealth and well-being.

Yamadeepdaan: Positivity Over Evil

Dhanteras is also called Yamadeepdaan because it involves lighting lamps to ward off darkness and evil, and as a tribute to Lord Yama, the god of death. This tradition is believed to protect people from death and ensure a long, prosperous life, guiding Yama's emissaries away.

Why is it Celebrated ?

Dhanteras is celebrated in India as the start of the Diwali festival and honors Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health. It symbolizes wealth and prosperity, with people buying gold, silver, or new utensils to attract good fortune. Families light lamps and pray to Goddess Lakshmi for blessings of health and wealth, making it a day that combines both material and spiritual significance.

The Ritual:

13 Diyas are lit to worship Goddess Laxmi  Kuber, Yamraj and Dhanavtari and other deties. They are also offered sweets, flowers and prayers.

What to Buy and What Not to Buy:

People specially buy gold and silver on the occasion as a token of wealth. It is also one of the Shubh Muhurat to buy appliances,vehicles and gadgets. Brooms also can be an item in the list as it symbolises cleanliness. Dhaniya seeds and turmeric are also used in the rituals.

Sharp Objects like knives, scissors, Glass Items and Black Products are avoided as they can attract negativity. Try avoiding lending money and also minimize the use of Ghee/Oil on this day.