Dhanteras or Dhanatrayodashi is the beginning of Diwali. The name originates from the Sanskrit words Dhan (Wealth) and Teras (13th), implying that the celebrations of prosperity, good health, and wealth take place during the month of Kartik, on the 13th Lunar day of the dark fortnight or Krishna Paksha.

On this auspicious day, Dhanvantari - the God of Ayurveda and Health, Kuber - the God of Wealth, and Lakshmi - the Goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity, are all worshiped. Furthermore, the Lakshmi Pujan has greater significance on Amavasya, two days after Dhanteras.

According to popular belief, investments in gold, electronics, property, and starting a new work or business on Dhanteras are considered auspicious. However, there are certain restrictions on activities during Dhanteras.

This article discusses - if you can perform Griha Pravesh on Dhanteras along with the most auspicious dates and timings to perform Dhanteras and Laxmi Puja.

Is Dhanteras an ideal time to perform Griha Pravesh?

As mentioned earlier, it is ideal to buy or pay a token amount for a residential property on Dhanteras. But it is advised not to perform Griha Pravesh According to the shastra, Vastu is in a dormant state during Dhanetras, which means the place to dwell is inactive. Shastras say that performing Griha Pravesh on this day can lead to deterioration in wealth and health.

The term 'Health is Wealth' is held in high regard in the Shastras, as good health conditions of the family will lead to Dhanagam (attainment of wealth) by them. Similarly, if the flow of wealth ceases, it can cause severe difficulties for the family, including health problems.

However, if you want to perform Griha Pravesh in an old house, which is newly furnished or completely renovated, the shastras do not prohibit that.

Ideal dates and timings for Dhanteras Puja

According to the Hindu Calender, the Kartik Trayodashi Tithi commences on Saturday, 22nd October 2022, at 18:02 hours (IST) and ends on Sunday, 23rd October 2022, at 18:03 hours (IST).

As per Drik Panchang, there are two auspicious periods in Dhanteras Puja, known as the Pradosh Kaal and the Vrishabha Kaal, performed on the same day - 22nd October 2022. The Pradosh Kaal starts at 17:45 hours (IST) and ends at 20:17 hours (IST), while the Vrishabh Kaal overlaps the former and starts at 19:01 hours (IST) and ends at 20:56 hours (IST)

The Pradosh Kaal and the Vrishabh Kaal are ideal periods as the sthir lagna or the immovable hour marker prevails during both periods. The belief is that Goddess Lakshmi resides in the home when performed during the sthir lagna.

The mahurat to perform the Dhanteras Puja as per the Pradosh Kaal differs from city to city. For instance:

• Mumbai - begin at 19:34 hours (IST) and ends at 20:40 hours (IST)
• Pune - begins at 19:31 hours (IST) and ends at 20:36 hours (IST)
• Bangalore - begins at 19:24 hours (IST) and ends at 20:24 hours (IST)
• Delhi - begin at 19:01 hours (IST) and ends at 20:17 hours (IST)

Ideal dates and timings for Laxmi Puja

According to the Hindu calendar, the Amavasya Tithi commences on Monday, 24th October 2022, at 17:27 hours (IST) and ends on Tuesday, 25th October 2022, at 16:18 hours (IST).

As per Drik Panchang, there are three auspicious periods in Lakshmi Puja - Pradosh Kaal, Nishita Kaal, and Choghadiya Puja.

The Pradosh Kaal is an ideal period to perform Lakshmi Puja. Nishita Kaal is ideally performed by pandits, while Choghadiya Puja is suitable for traveling.

The mahurat to perform Lakshmi Puja as per the Pradosh Kaal differs from city to city. For instance:

• Mumbai - begin at 19:26 hours (IST) and ends at 20:39 hours (IST)
• Pune - begins at 19:23 hours (IST) and ends at 20:35 hours (IST)
• Bangalore - begins at 19:16 hours (IST) and ends at 20:23 hours (IST)
• Delhi - begin at 18:53 hours (IST) and ends at 20:16 hours (IST)