Dhanteras, the auspicious day heralding the Diwali festivities, is being celebrated today this year. It signifies the commencement of celebrations dedicated to wealth and prosperity.
On Dhanteras, it's customary to purchase gold, silver, jewellery, utensils, and electronics to invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera into homes, symbolizing wealth in Hindu mythology.
Dhanteras aligns with the 13th lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu calendar month of Ashvin or Kartika, with 'Dhan' meaning wealth and 'Teras' representing the thirteenth day.
Devotees perform pujas for Goddess Lakshmi, Ganesha, Dhanvantari, and Lord Kubera. The three forms of Goddess Lakshmi - Saraswati, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Kaali - are also revered during the celebrations.
Dhanteras is a celebration of spiritual triumph, spanning five days of Diwali festivities. Devotees seek blessings for wealth, prosperity, and well-being from Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda.
According to Hindu mythology, prayers to Lord Dhanvantari on Dhanteras are believed to relieve devotees from diseases and sufferings, emphasizing the festival's significance for health and well-being.
Legends narrate the emergence of Goddess Durga and Lord Kubera from the ocean during "Sagar Manthan," connecting the worship of these deities to the auspicious Trayodashi day.
Tradition warns against buying sharp objects, iron products, aluminium, plastic items, black-coloured items, and glassware on Dhanteras, as these are considered inauspicious.
Astrologers advise steering clear of black-coloured items, associating them with bad luck. Purchasing items made of iron is discouraged, as Lord Kuber's blessings are believed to evade such acquisitions.
The Dhanteras puja muhurat for this year is set to last from 5:47 pm to 7:43 pm, offering devotees an almost two-hour window for their auspicious rituals.