Dhanteras, a significant part of the Diwali celebrations, is being observed across various regions today. This auspicious occasion, also known as Dhan Trayodashi and Dhanwantri Jayanti, holds great importance in Hindu culture. It is a day when people believe that making new purchases, particularly of gold or silver items, new utensils, appliances, and even automobiles, will usher blessings and prosperity into their lives.
Devotees pay homage to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity associated with wealth and fortune, making it an opportune time to go shopping for various items, marking the commencement of the five-day Diwali festivities. The term ‘Dhanteras’ itself is derived from ‘Dhan’ (wealth) and ‘Teras’ (thirteenth), signifying the belief that significant purchases on this day attract blessings and wealth.
On Dhanteras, people traditionally buy specific items to invite good luck and prosperity into their homes. Here are ten items that are considered auspicious to purchase on this day:
Utensils: Kitchen utensils made of brass, copper, silver, or clay symbolize success. It is customary to fill these utensils with milk, rice, or lentils after bringing them home.
Silver Items: Silver, another precious metal, is highly auspicious on Dhanteras. Purchasing silver ornaments, coins, or kitchenware is believed to bring money and prosperity into the household.
Oil Lamps and Diyas: Lighting oil lamps, or diyas, is a central tradition of Dhanteras. The light from these lamps is said to invite Goddess Lakshmi, dispelling negativity and darkness while adding warmth to the home.
Broom: Even buying a broom on Dhanteras is considered lucky and auspicious. It is believed to remove poverty from the home and alleviate financial worries.
Gomti Chakra: Gomti Chakras, unique shells found along the Gomati River, are considered sacred and are used in puja during Diwali. They are believed to ward off the evil eye and promote family success.
Electronic Items: Dhanteras is an ideal time to upgrade electronic gadgets like mobile phones and televisions. Diwali sales offer great savings on new electronic purchases.
Jewellery: Investing in gold jewelry symbolizes success and wealth, serving as a sign of financial stability and prosperity in the household. Gold is regarded as a long-term asset.
Gold and Silver Coins: Purchasing gold and silver coins, particularly those with deities’ engravings, is customary and believed to bring success, money, and good fortune.
Idols of Gods and Goddesses: Installing idols of deities is a common practice during Dhanteras and the Diwali festival, symbolizing devotion, worship, and the welcoming of divine blessings into one’s home.
New Clothes: Buying new clothes on Dhanteras signifies the beginning of something fresh and beautiful for Diwali celebrations. It symbolizes renewal and adds a festive spirit to the occasion as people dress in their best attire to celebrate the festival of lights.