Dhanteras, also called Dhanatrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five day Diwali festival in much of India. It falls on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the dark fortnight of the Kartik month in the purnimanta calendar. The exact date and muhurat should be checked in your local panchang, since they vary by region.
This article is based on religious beliefs and folk traditions. Democratic Bharat Live does not claim to verify them.
Dhanvantari Jayanti
According to Hindu belief, Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and healing, emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) on this day, holding a pot of nectar. Dhanteras is therefore also observed as Dhanvantari Jayanti. Since 2016, the Ministry of Ayush has observed National Ayurveda Day on Dhanvantari Jayanti. In 2025, the government notified September 23 as a fixed date for Ayurveda Day, so check the Ministry of Ayush for the current practice.
Why people buy metal items
Buying gold, silver, new utensils or other metal items on Dhanteras is seen as auspicious and a sign of prosperity. Many families also buy brooms, believing it sweeps away poverty. In recent years, buying vehicles, electronics and digital gold on this day has become popular.
Lakshmi and Kuber worship
In many homes, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber, the treasurer of wealth, are worshipped in the evening. Houses are cleaned and decorated with rangoli and lamps.
Also Read: Kartik Month Significance: Deepdaan, Holy Dips and the Festivals That Fall in This Sacred Month | Chhath Puja Rituals: What Happens on Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya
Yam Deepdaan
A special tradition of Dhanteras is Yam Deepdaan. In the evening, a lamp is lit facing south, the direction associated with Yama, the god of death, outside the house. The belief is that this protects the family from untimely death. A popular story tells of a prince whose life was saved on this night by the cleverness of his wife, who kept him awake with lamps and stories.
The five days of Diwali
- Dhanteras
- Naraka Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali
- Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya, the main Diwali
- Govardhan Puja or Annakut
- Bhai Dooj
Smart buying tips
- Buy gold jewellery with the BIS hallmark and HUID number. You can verify it on the BIS Care app.
- Compare making charges across shops.
- Avoid buying on impulse because of festive discounts.
Bottom line
Dhanteras celebrates health and prosperity. Whether you buy a small utensil or gold, the spirit of the day lies in welcoming good fortune and lighting the way to Diwali.
Source / स्रोत: Ministry of Ayush, Ministry of Culture
