As the festive season draws near, the sparkle of Diwali begins with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to wealth, health, and divine blessings. Celebrated on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, Dhanteras sets the tone for five days of celebration, joy, and spiritual upliftment.
What is Dhanteras All About?
The word Dhanteras is a beautiful blend of “Dhan,” meaning wealth, and “Teras,” referring to the 13th day. It’s also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanvantari Trayodashi. More than just the first day of Diwali, Dhanteras is a heartfelt reminder to invite abundance, wellness, and positivity into our lives.
This sacred day is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, who is believed to have emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) with a pot of nectar (Amrit), and Lord Kuber, the treasurer of the gods. Goddess Lakshmi, the harbinger of wealth and prosperity, is also worshipped with devotion.
When is Dhanteras in 2025?
Dhanteras in 2025 falls on Monday, October 20, 2025
Puja Muhurat (Will be updated closer to the date as per astrologers’ predictions)
How to Perform Dhanteras Puja – The Rituals
If you’re planning to do the Dhanteras Puja, here’s a simple guide to help you:
- Set up idols or pictures of Lord Dhanvantari, Lord Kuber, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Ganesha, ideally facing north.
- Light a diya (lamp) and begin the puja with devotion.
- Apply tilak to the deities and offer flowers, fruits, and sweets.
- Offer white sweets to Lord Kuber and yellow sweets to Lord Dhanvantari as prasad.
- Chant the mantra: “Om Hreem Kuberaya Namah”.
- Recite the Dhanvantari Stotra to seek blessings for health and longevity.
What to Buy on Dhanteras – and What to Avoid
Dhanteras is one of the most auspicious shopping days! Here’s your do-and-don’t guide:
Auspicious Buys:
- Gold, silver, and brass items are symbols of wealth and prosperity.
- New utensils – Especially brass and copper, as they’re connected to Lord Dhanvantari.
- Coriander seeds – They’re considered lucky!
- A new broom – It’s believed to sweep away poverty and bring good luck.
Avoid Buying:
- Black or dark-colored items
- Utensils made of glass, aluminium, or iron
- Sharp items or anything that signifies negativity
The Significance of Dhanteras
Dhanteras isn’t just about material wealth—it’s about inviting abundance in all forms. It’s believed that those who perform puja on this day will always have a full house of wealth, joy, and good health.
According to legend, when Lord Dhanvantari appeared with the nectar of immortality, it marked a divine moment of healing and rejuvenation. That’s why this day also honors health and the Ayurvedic sciences.
In Jainism, Dhanteras is called Dhanya Teras or Dhyan Teras. It commemorates the moment when Lord Mahavir entered deep meditation, just three days before attaining Nirvana on Diwali. It’s a time for reflection, spiritual awakening, and inner peace.
The Power of 13 on Dhanteras
The number 13, often considered unlucky elsewhere, holds special meaning on this day. It’s said that anything you do or buy on Dhanteras gives 13 times the return. So whether it’s shopping, donating, or starting a new habit, go for it!
Lighting the Yam Deep – A Must-Do Tradition
One unique tradition of Dhanteras is lighting the Yam Deep—a small lamp placed facing south, in honor of Yamraj, the god of death. It’s done to ward off untimely death and keep the family safe and healthy. This sacred lamp is a symbol of protection and a prayer for a long life.
Conclusion
Dhanteras is more than just a shopping day—it’s a time to cleanse our homes, minds, and hearts. It’s about ushering in light, love, health, and prosperity. Whether you’re lighting a diya, buying a gold coin, or simply spending time with family, do it with devotion and joy.
And if you’re seeking guidance on the most auspicious time for your puja or purchases this Diwali season, AstroVijay is the best astrologer in India to help you align your actions with divine timing and positive energies.
So, get your diyas ready, plan your purchases, and prepare for the glow of Diwali, starting with Dhanteras. Here’s wishing you and your loved ones a very Happy and Prosperous Dhanteras 2025!