Dhanteras 2024: Significance, Traditions, and Items to Buy for Prosperity

Dhanteras, a festival rooted in Hindu mythology, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations. Its origins go back to ancient times, with deep cultural and spiritual significance. According to legends, as stated in the Drik Panchang, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during the churning of the Milky Way on the day of Dhantrayodashi. She is worshipped alongside Lord Kubera, the God of wealth, during this auspicious occasion, while Lakshmi Puja, performed two days later on Amavasya, holds even greater importance.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

The festival symbolizes the start of Diwali, the grand festival of lights, and is considered a favorable time for new beginnings. It's also seen as a day to purchase valuable items, such as gold, silver, and metal utensils, which are believed to attract prosperity and wealth into one's home. The ritual of shopping on this day is widely practiced and has become a part of Dhanteras traditions across the country.

Another important aspect of Dhanteras is that it coincides with the celebration of Dhanvantari Jayanti, which commemorates the birth of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine figure associated with Ayurveda and health.

Items to Buy on Dhanteras for Prosperity

As part of Dhanteras celebrations, certain items are traditionally purchased, believed to usher in good fortune and prosperity. Here are five key items often bought on this special day:

• Metal Utensils: Purchasing metal utensils, especially for drinking water, is considered auspicious. Brass items are particularly favored for their association with good luck.
• Idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi: Separate idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are a must-have for Diwali, symbolizing spiritual and financial prosperity. These idols are worshipped during the festival for blessings.
• Kuber Yantra: Astrologers recommend bringing home a Kuber Yantra, which is a sacred object believed to attract wealth and prosperity when placed in the home’s prayer area.
• Broom: Buying a broom on Dhanteras has symbolic meaning. It’s connected to Goddess Lakshmi and is believed to sweep away financial obstacles and clear negativity from the household.
• Coriander Seeds: Buying coriander is another tradition, as it represents prosperity and good fortune in many households.

City-Specific Timings and Auspicious Muhurat for Dhanteras 2024

For those planning to perform the Dhanteras Puja, timing is crucial. The Drik Panchang offers city-specific muhurat timings for October 29, 2024: