Dhanteras, a significant festival celebrated two days before Diwali, has a deep connection to the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning). According to the Puranas, it was on this day that Lord Dhanvantari appeared with the pot of Amrit (elixir of immortality). Buying gold, silver, and new utensils, lighting lamps, cleaning the house, and donating are considered auspicious on this day, bringing health, prosperity, and happiness.
Dhanteras 2025: This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 20th, and the Dhanteras festival, which comes two days prior, is linked to the Samudra Manthan. According to ancient legends, Lord Dhanvantari appeared on this day with the pot of Amrit. On the occasion of Dhanteras in India, people buy gold, silver, and metal utensils, clean their homes, light lamps, and donate to the needy. This festival is not merely a religious ritual but is considered a means to bring health, prosperity, and happiness to the family.
Mythological Significance of Diwali
Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, and it has a profound connection to the Samudra Manthan. According to Hindu scriptures and Puranas, in ancient times, the gods and demons collaboratively churned the ocean to obtain the pot of Amrit and gain immortality. This churning brought forth many divine jewels and wondrous objects, among the most significant of which was the appearance of Lord Dhanvantari. Lord Dhanvantari held the pot of Amrit in his hands and is revered as the deity of Ayurveda and health. His appearance became a symbol of health, prosperity, and happiness.
The Connection Between Dhanteras and Samudra Manthan
Dhanteras falls two days before Diwali and is also known as Dhan Trayodashi. It is believed that on this very day, Lord Dhanvantari emerged carrying a golden pot of Amrit. This is why the tradition of buying gold, silver, and new utensils began on this day. It is not merely a religious custom but is also considered a means to invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi into the home and maintain peace and harmony within the family.
The significance of Dhanteras is not limited to wealth and material prosperity alone. This festival also conveys the message of bringing positive energy into the home and seeking protection from negative forces. According to the Puranas, auspicious deeds and traditions performed on this day prove beneficial in the long run.
Auspicious Practices and Traditions on Dhanteras
- Buy Gold, Silver, and Metal Utensils: On Dhanteras, buying gold, silver, copper, brass, and steel utensils is considered auspicious. Keeping these metals in the home promotes the flow of positive energy and offers protection from negative forces. This tradition is not limited to financial prosperity but also helps in maintaining health and happiness in the home.
- Home Cleaning: Thoroughly cleaning the house on Dhanteras is considered highly auspicious. Keeping the home organized and clean dispels negative energy and promotes the flow of positive energy. A clean and tidy home attracts Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth.
- Lighting Lamps: Lighting lamps at the main entrance, windows, and significant areas of the home is considered traditional and auspicious. The light from the lamps dispels darkness and negativity. This is not merely a part of decoration but is also seen as a symbol of inviting Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, the god of wealth.
- Installing a Kuber Yantra: Installing a Kuber Yantra (a mystical diagram of Lord Kubera, the god of wealth) in the home on Dhanteras increases financial stability and prosperity. This yantra not only attracts wealth but also maintains prosperity and harmony among family members.
- Donating: Donating food, clothes, or other essential items to the needy is considered a particularly meritorious act on Dhanteras. Donating not only provides an opportunity for social service but also fosters feelings of contentment and compassion in an individual.
Conclusion and Significance
The festival of Dhanteras is not merely a religious ritual or a day for shopping. It is also a symbol of health, prosperity, happiness, and positive energy. The mythological tale of the Samudra Manthan and the traditions associated with the appearance of Lord Dhanvantari remind us that Diwali is not just a festival of lights, but a celebration that brings balance, good fortune, and prosperity into life.
This Diwali, observing these traditions and practices on Dhanteras helps maintain peace, prosperity, health, and happiness in the home. Keep your home clean and decorated with your family, light lamps, and donate to the needy. This is not only a religious ritual but also a means to bring positive changes into life.
