Dhanteras is observed on the 13th lunar day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik. The name "Dhanteras" is derived from "Dhan," meaning wealth, and "Teras," referring to the 13th day. The festival is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of health and medicine, who is believed to have emerged from the ocean during the churning of the seas on this day. Additionally, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Kuber, the god of riches, to invite prosperity into their homes.

There are two prominent legends linked to Dhanteras:

Lord Dhanvantari's Emergence: According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean), Lord Dhanvantari appeared with a pot of amrita (nectar of immortality). This event is commemorated on Dhanteras as a day to honor health and well-being.

The Prince and His Wife: Another tale tells of a king's son destined to die on his fourth day of marriage. His clever wife illuminated their home with gold and silver items and lit lamps to distract Yama, the god of death, thereby saving her husband's life. This story inspires the tradition of buying precious metals and lighting lamps on Dhanteras.

Dhanteras not only celebrates wealth but also emphasises health, which is symbolized by Lord Dhanvantari. In many households, Ayurvedic practitioners also pay homage to Lord Dhanvantari, reflecting a blend of spirituality and wellness. The festival highlights the importance of maintaining both physical health and financial well-being.

The celebration of Dhanteras involves several rituals performed with devotion:

1. Home Preparation

Cleaning and Decorating: Families clean their homes thoroughly to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Decorations often include rangoli, lights, and flowers.

Lighting Diyas: Diyas (oil lamps) are lit outside homes to dispel darkness and negativity, symbolizing the arrival of prosperity.

It is customary to buy precious metals like gold or silver items as symbols of wealth. Common purchases include:

These purchases are not merely transactional; they carry cultural significance that reflects both tradition and modern aspirations.

A sacred altar is prepared with idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Dhanvantari, and Lord Kuber. The altar is adorned with flowers, fruits, and sweets. The main puja (worship) occurs during the auspicious time known as Pradosh Kaal, which in 2024 is from 7:00 PM to 8:49 PM. Devotees offer prayers, chant mantras, and present offerings such as sweets, coins, and gold ornaments.

Traditional Offerings

During puja rituals:

• Fresh flowers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi.
• Fruits such as bananas and apples are presented.
• Sweets like laddus or halwa made from wheat flour are served.
• Incense sticks are lit to create a fragrant atmosphere conducive for prayers.

A special ritual involves lighting a diya made from dough and mustard oil called Yama Deepam, placed outside the home to honor Lord Yama and seek protection for family members from negative influences.

After completing the puja, prasad (offering) consisting of sweets and fruits is distributed among family members as a symbol of sharing blessings.