Dhanteras 2025: Date, Story, Meaning, and Significance of Dhantrayodashi
Know why Dhanteras is celebrated, its mythological stories, rituals, and significance. Learn about Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Yama Deep tradition.
The festival of Dhanteras is celebrated every year on the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Kartika. This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on October 18th, also known as Dhantrayodashi. Dhanteras holds special significance in Hinduism, as it is considered the most auspicious day for shopping. On this day, people buy gold, silver, and utensils. Every year, people eagerly await Dhanteras. But do you know why Dhanteras is celebrated? Let's explain the reason behind celebrating Dhanteras in this article.
What does Dhanteras mean?
Dhanteras means "the thirteenth day of wealth." It is derived from the two Sanskrit words 'dhan' (wealth) and 'teras' (thirteenth day) and is celebrated on the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Kartika according to the Hindu calendar. It marks the beginning of the Diwali festival. On Dhanteras, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari are worshipped for wealth, prosperity, and good health. Buying gold, silver, and other new items on this day is considered auspicious.
What is the story of Dhanteras?
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is considered the first day of the five-day Diwali festival, a festival associated with prosperity, good health, and wealth. There are two main mythological stories behind the celebration of Dhanteras. The first story relates to the churning of the ocean, and the second is about a prince. Let us explain these two stories in detail.
The Story of the Churning of the Ocean
According to mythology, when the gods and demons churned the ocean together, Lord Dhanvantari appeared on Kartik Krishna Trayodashi, holding a pot of nectar in his hands. Lord Dhanvantari is considered the god of medicine, who expanded medical science throughout the world. The festival of Dhanteras is celebrated to commemorate his appearance. This churning of the ocean also produced Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and 14 other gems, further enhancing the significance of this festival.
The Story of the Prince and Yamaraj
An astrologer told King Hima's son that he would die from a snake bite on the fourth day of his wedding. To ward off Yamaraj, the god of death, the prince's newlywed wife placed gold and silver ornaments and lit lamps at the door of the room. Seeing this, Yamaraj became blind and was unable to reach the prince. This incident led to the tradition of lighting Yama Deep outside the house on the evening of Dhanteras to ward off Yamaraj's fear and ensure the family's longevity.
Who is worshipped on Dhanteras?
Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kubera are primarily worshipped on Dhanteras. In Hinduism, Lord Dhanvantari is considered the god of Ayurveda and the giver of health, Goddess Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, and Lord Kubera is considered the lord of wealth and prosperity.
How is Dhanteras celebrated?
On Dhanteras, homes are cleaned and Lakshmi, Ganesha, Kubera, and Dhanvantari are worshipped. New items such as gold, silver, brass utensils, brooms, and coriander are purchased during the auspicious time. On Dhanteras, a four-sided lamp is lit in the name of Yamraj at the main entrance of the house in the evening, and lamps are lit for Goddess Lakshmi at night.
(Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. stackumbrella does not confirm it.)
Read More: 5 Days of Diwali: Meaning, Stories, and Significance of Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj
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