Dhanteras marks the grand start of the festival of light, the five-day Diwali festival. Referred to as "Dhantrayodashi", this auspicious day is observed with reverence, prosperity yagna, and shopping customs that are centuries old. For families in India, Dhanteras is not merely shopping; it is a profound gesture of faith and thanksgiving to the Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari for entering our homes.

In this blog, we will look at when Dhanteras takes place, the reasons why we celebrate Dhanteras, ways to celebrate, and Dhanteras shopping for prosperity and good fortune. We will also share how contemporary traditions come together with beliefs, positivity and love, creating a truly unique festival.

When is Dhanteras?

Dhanteras is observed on the Trayodashi (13th day) of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. This date is approximately a day to two days before the Diwali festival, depending on the lunar calendar. In 2025, Dhanteras will be celebrated with reverence across India as the first step into the lights, joy, and prosperity Diwali festival. The commemoration generally begins in the evening with families cleaning their homes, lighting diyas, and initiating a Lakshmi Puja to welcome wealth and good fortune.

Purpose of Dhanteras Celebration

The term "Dhanteras" is composed of two words: Dhan (wealth) and Teras (thirteenth day). Dhanteras is significant for two reasons:

Worshipping Lord Dhanvantari

As per Hindu myth, Dhanvantari, who is known to be the doctor of the gods, emerged from the ocean (Samudra Manthan) on this day with a pot of Amrit (nectar of immortality) in hand. He is known to be the God of health, healing and Ayurveda.

Worshipping of Goddess Lakshmi

Dhanteras is also considered a time to worship Goddess Lakshmi, who is known to be the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Lighting lamps and making rangoli to decorate the house on Dhanteras are meant to signify the removal of darkness and to bring in positivity, peace, and wealth.

This is why Dhanteras is celebrated to pray for wealth, health, longevity, and happiness.

How to Celebrate Dhanteras

In India, Dhanteras is celebrated differently across the states, but the common theme remains the same: purity, prosperity, and positivity.

Let’s understand how to celebrate Dhanteras, and about some traditional customs:

• Cleaning and Decorating the Home: People will always clean every inch of their house, as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi graces only those homes that are clean and well-lit. People ring in the festivities with rangolis, diyas, and torans for that finished touch.

• Lakshmi & Kuber Puja: People worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber (the god of wealth) using flowers, sweets, and lamps to welcome prosperity into their homes.

• Lighting Diyas (lamps): Diyas are placed or lit at the entrance and corners of the house to ward off negativity and welcome positivity.

• Shopping: A key element of Dhanteras is shopping, and that brings us to the question, what to buy on Dhanteras?

What to Buy on Dhanteras

Dhanteras is one of the most significant days to engage in shopping. It is said that all purchases on this day multiply and cause prosperity throughout the year. Here is a list of what to purchase on Dhanteras:

• Gold and Silver  

Purchasing gold and silver is a common tradition among many cultures. Gold is seen as a natural sign of wealth and a guarantee of future wealth. Many people buy gold and silver coins with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha engraved on them for future use in Diwali puja as a symbol of devotion.

• Utensils  

New utensils made of brass, copper, or steel are considered very lucky. These represent health, nourishment, and positive energy in the household.

• Electronics and Appliances  

In current times, individuals have grown this tradition by purchasing electronics, household appliances, and even cars. The traditional beliefs say that when something is purchased on Dhanteras, it will be safe and functional for a long time.

• Jewellery  

Gold jewellery or diamond jewellery is a popular recommendation for many families. Aside from being a cultural tradition, jewellery symbolises blessings from Goddess Lakshmi.

• Idols and Home Decor  

Clay or metal idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are also purchased to be placed in homes and offices for puja. The many decorative items available are also popular on this day, such as diyas and rangoli sets.

• Broom   

And yes, even a broom is considered lucky when purchased on Dhanteras. This is believed to wipe away poverty and negativity from the home.

• New Apparel and Goods

New clothing during Dhanteras and Diwali represents a new beginning and intention for joy and prosperity.

The Significance of Purchasing on Dhanteras

The act of purchasing on Dhanteras is not simply materialistic, and it is meant to be a signifier.

• Gold & Silver: Signifiers of multiplying wealth.

• Utensils: Signifiers of nourishment and family welfare.

• Electronics & Appliances: Signifiers of how traditions evolve.

• Broom: Signifier of removal of negative energy.

With this, the act of purchasing is based on the belief that says that these purchases also represent an invitation of blessings, peace and positivity into one's life.

Dhanteras Today

Today, the basic essence of Dhanteras remains unchanged; however, the actions people used to do earlier have all changed. When it comes to celebrating Dhanteras, online shopping portals, unique festive discounts, digital gold purchases, etc., are now prevalent. However, families now continue to light diyas, prepare sweets, and complete puja rituals with similar energy and traditional rituals as years ago.

Families nowadays also wish each other Happy Dhanteras and Diwali via social media and through WhatsApp. Similarly, many also wish their family Happy Dhanteras on their respective statuses with an appropriate Dhanteras status or quote. These many forms are just to signify more connection, in a time where we are so busy that we cannot be physically available for the traditions.

Conclusion

Dhanteras is much more than the beginning of Diwali merchandise shopping; it's a festival of faith, health, and wealth. By understanding when Dhanteras is, the meaning behind Dhanteras, how to celebrate Dhanteras, and what to buy on Dhanteras, we uphold a tradition that has blessed families for generations.

So, whether you purchase gold, a new gadget, or a broom, what's important is the act of welcoming in positivity and prosperity. This Dhanteras, celebrate with devotion, love, and sweet wishes, and let your home glow with abundance.

Also, do not forget to spread the festival cheer with Dhanteras wishes in Hindi, or check your Dhanteras status updates to share with family and friends.