22/10/2022
𝑫𝑯𝑨𝑵𝑻𝑬𝑹𝑨𝑺
*Dhanteras is popularly known as the first day of Diwali festival* and marks the beginning of Diwali festival. It is observed two days before Diwali and falls on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik Month. In Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, the same period is the thirteenth day of Ashwin month. Special Puja and rituals are observed on the day.
*Dhanteras is the day* chosen by many people to make investments in gold or silver. A new utensil or gold or silver is bought for the house on Dhanteras. Some people also make it a point to make an investment on the day as it is believed that investments made on this day will appreciate.
*For those doing business, Dhanteras* is the day when new account books are bought and kept ready for the Lakshmi Puja on Diwali.
*Crackers, candles, diyas, clay Murtis of Shri Ganesh and Mata Lakshmi,* earthen katoris, toys and whole lot of other items needed for Diwali are purchased on this day. Most people also wait for the day to purchase and give away Diwali gifts.
*Houses are decorated and special rangolis* are drawn on the floor. Small foot prints are made in the houses. Some people also perform Lakshmi Puja on the day.
*Interestingly, a girl child born on Dhanteras day* is considered as the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi into the house and is considered lucky by certain communities. When girls born on Dhanteras get married and leave for her husband’s home, she leaves her footprints on a plate covered with Kumkum, this is to ensure that Goddess Lakshmi does not leave the house.
*The day is also dedicated to Dhanvantri,* the Hindu God of medicine, and therefore special Dhanvantari Puja is held on this day.
*Other rituals and festivities on Dhanteras day*
Dhantrayodashi – Another name of Dhanteras and lighting of lamps for Yama
Yama Panchak – in Nepal
Tihar Festival – Diwali in Nepal begins
Yama Deepdan – Lighting of lamps for Yama
Dhanvantari Jayanti – Appearance day of God Dhanvantari
*Happy Dhanteras to you and to your family*
*Shyna & Manish Gupta*
*Rhythms Group & SCLRRC, Mumbai, India*