Dhanteras
Dhanteras, also called Dhanatrayodashi, is the first day of the five-day Diwali festival in India. It usually falls two days before Diwali and marks the beginning of celebrations dedicated to wealth, prosperity, and well-being.
What Does Dhanteras Mean?
Dhanteras falls on the 13th lunar day (Trayodashi) of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashwin. The word Dhanteras is derived from “Dhan” meaning wealth and “Teras” indicating the 13th day of the lunar fortnight. It is considered one of the most auspicious days for starting new ventures, making purchases, and performing religious rituals.
Story of Legend King Hima and His Son
According to legend, the 16-year-old son of King Hima was destined to die by a snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. His clever wife prevented his death by lighting numerous diyas, arranging her ornaments and gold coins at the entrance, and narrating stories to keep him awake. When Yama, the God of Death, arrived in the form of a serpent, he was blinded by the brilliance of the lamps and ornaments and left without harming the prince. Since then, Dhanteras is celebrated with the ritual of lighting lamps to ward off untimely death.
Dhanteras 2025
In 2025, Dhanteras will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 18, 2025. The day will be marked with Dhanteras puja, decoration with beautiful Dhanteras rangoli designs, and preparation for Diwali celebrations by purchasing Ganesh Idol and Lakshmi Ganesh Photo.
Rituals of Dhanteras Puja
Rituals during dhanteras puja are-
Lakshmi Puja during Pradosh Kaal (after sunset).
Lighting diya outside the house.
Decorating entrances with Dhanteras rangoli design.
Offering sweets, flowers, and coins during the Dhanteras puja.
How Do People Celebrate Dhanteras?
People clean and decorate their homes with rangoli for Dhanteras, light diyas, and perform Dhanteras puja in the evening. Families worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari. Markets are filled with shoppers buying gold, silver, new utensils, and festive items.
Why Do People Buy Gold and Silver on Dhanteras?
Buying gold and silver on Dhanteras is considered highly auspicious as it symbolizes wealth and long-term prosperity. Many also purchase new utensils and household items, believing that it invites abundance into their homes.
Dhanteras Puja Items
Some essential Dhanteras puja items include:
Diyas and cotton wicks
Flowers, incense sticks, and camphor
Coins, gold or silver articles.
Idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha
Dhanteras – Connection with Diwali
Dhanteras marks the first day of the five-day Diwali festival. It is followed by Narak Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Together, these festivals celebrate light, wealth, family bonding, and the victory of good over evil. Families also look forward to Bhaiya Dooj and exchange gifts during this festive season.
Dhanteras - Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5 days of Diwali in 2025?
Diwali is a 5 Days Festival, the celebration starts from Dhanteras on 18 October 2025.
How many days left for Dhanteras 2025?
Dhanteras is always after 9 days of karwa chauth and karwa chauth is on 9 October 2025.
What is the Shubh muhurat for Dhanteras 2025?
The nation is going to celebrate the occasion of dhanteras on 18 October 2025.
Does gold price decrease in Dhanteras?
No, gold price do not decrease during the time of dhanteras.