Dhanteras 2025 Festivals

As the cool autumn breeze sets in and the festive season begins, India gears up to celebrate one of the most awaited festivals - Dhanteras. This festival marks the start of Diwali, one of the grandest celebrations in India. Let's dive into what Dhanteras is, why it is celebrated, and how people enjoy this special day with rich traditions and rituals.

What is Dhanteras?

Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is an important Hindu festival celebrated two days before Diwali. It falls on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu month of Kartik, usually occurring in October or November.

The word "Dhanteras" combines two words:

• "Dhan" means wealth
• "Teras" means the thirteenth day

This day is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, the divine healer and god of Ayurveda. People celebrate Dhanteras by cleaning their homes, buying gold, silver, or utensils, and performing special prayers for prosperity and good health.

When is Dhanteras 2025?

In 2025, Dhanteras will be celebrated on October 19. It occurs two days before Diwali, making it an important start to the festival of lights.

Dhanteras History

The origin of Dhanteras is linked to Hindu mythology and has two famous stories:

1. The Legend of Lord Dhanvantari

According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean), the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean to obtain amrita (the nectar of immortality). During this process, many divine treasures emerged, one of which was Lord Dhanvantari, holding a pot of amrita in his hands.

Since this event took place on the day of Dhanteras, the day is dedicated to worshiping Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, for good health and well-being.

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2. The Story of Prince Hima

Another legend tells the tale of Prince Hima, who was predicted to die from a snakebite on the fourth day of his marriage. To save him, his wife kept gold, silver, and jewelry at the doorstep and lit numerous oil lamps around their home. When Yama, the god of death, arrived in the form of a serpent, he was blinded by the brilliance of the lights and treasures. Unable to enter the house, Yama quietly returned, sparing Prince Hima's life.

This story is why people light diyas (oil lamps) and buy gold or silver on Dhanteras to bring prosperity and ward off evil.

Significance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras is significant for several reasons:

Traditions and Rituals of Dhanteras

Dhanteras is rich in customs that symbolize wealth, prosperity, and positivity. Here are the key traditions and rituals:

1. Cleaning and Decoration

• Homes are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt and negativity.
• Rangoli designs made with vibrant colors are created at the entrance to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
• Oil lamps (diyas) are placed in every corner of the house to invite positivity.

2. Shopping for Gold, Silver, and Utensils

• Buying gold, silver, or new utensils is considered highly auspicious.
• These purchases are believed to bring financial stability and prosperity.

3. Performing Dhanteras Puja

• A special Lakshmi Puja and Dhanvantari Puja is performed in the evening.
• Families light diyas, offer flowers, sweets, and fruits, and chant mantras seeking blessings for wealth and health.

4. Lighting of Diyas (Oil Lamps)

• Diyas are placed near entrances, windows, and balconies.
• This tradition symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and brings peace and harmony.

5. Listening to Stories and Legends

• Elders often narrate the tales of Lord Dhanvantari and Prince Hima to educate the younger generation about the festival's significance.

6. Preparing Special Dishes

• Families prepare delicious sweets such as puri, jalebi, and laddoos as offerings during puja.
• These dishes are shared among family members to celebrate the festival.

7. Exchange of Gifts

• Exchanging gifts like sweets, dry fruits, or decorative items with loved ones is common.
• This strengthens family bonds and promotes the spirit of giving.

How to Celebrate Dhanteras 2025?

To celebrate Dhanteras 2025 in the best way possible, follow this step-by-step guide:

Tips for a Prosperous Dhanteras 2025

1. Buy Gold Early: Prices often rise closer to Dhanteras, so purchasing valuable items a few days early may be beneficial.
2. Clean Early: Deep cleaning your home a few days before the festival will allow you to focus on shopping and rituals.
3. Plan Your Budget: Since buying gold or silver is common, set a budget to avoid overspending.
4. Eco-friendly Diyas: Choose clay diyas instead of electric lights to celebrate traditionally and sustainably.
5. Prepare Prasad at Home: Making sweets like laddoos or puri at home adds a personal touch to the celebrations.

Conclusion

Dhanteras is a festival of wealth, prosperity, and good health that marks the beginning of Diwali. By performing traditional rituals, purchasing valuable items, and sharing joy with family and friends, you can ensure a fulfilling and prosperous celebration.