सूर्य ग्रहण: 28 मई, शुक्रवार 2023 |
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the first day of the grand Diwali festival in India. Celebrated on the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Kartik, Dhanteras holds immense significance in Hindu culture.
It is believed that on this day, Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, showers her blessings upon those who worship her with devotion and purchase auspicious items.
In this article, we will explore the significance of Dhanteras and what to buy on Dhanteras, the traditional items that people purchase on this auspicious occasion.
The Spiritual Significance of Dhanteras
Before knowing what to buy on Dhanteras, it’s necessary to get aware of its spiritual significance.
Dhanteras is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, and its spiritual significance resonates deeply with people of all ages.
The word “Dhanteras” is derived from two Sanskrit words, “Dhan,” which means wealth, and “Teras,” which means the thirteenth day. The festival symbolizes the worship of wealth and prosperity and is observed to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for a prosperous life.
According to Hindu mythology, on the day of Dhanteras, Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) with a pot of elixir (amrita). This divine event is believed to bring health and well-being to those who worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and healing, on this day.
What to Buy on Dhanteras?
On Dhanteras, people traditionally buy and invest in various items that are considered auspicious. These purchases are not only symbolic but are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the household. Here are some of the traditional items that are commonly considered as what to buy on Dhanteras:
1. Gold and Silver
Purchasing gold or silver items, such as coins, jewelry, or utensils, is considered highly auspicious on Dhanteras. These precious metals are believed to invite wealth and prosperity into the home.
2. Utensils
Buying new utensils, especially those made of silver, brass, or copper, is a common tradition on Dhanteras. It signifies the beginning of a new culinary journey and is believed to bring prosperity to the family kitchen. Buying utensils is the perfect answer to the query on what to buy on Dhanteras.
3. Lakshmi Idol or Picture
Many people purchase idols or pictures of Goddess Lakshmi to place in their homes. These representations of the deity are worshiped with devotion to invite her blessings.
4. Oil Lamps and Diyas
Lighting oil lamps (diyas) and candles is an essential part of Dhanteras celebrations. They are placed at entrances, windows, and throughout the house to ward off negative energies and invite positivity.
5. Sweets and Dry Fruits
Sweet treats like Indian sweets (mithai) and dry fruits are exchanged among family members and friends as a gesture of goodwill and prosperity. This is also a good answer to the query on what to buy on Dhanteras.
6. New Clothes
Wearing new clothes on Dhanteras is believed to bring joy and happiness. It is also a way of expressing gratitude for the blessings of wealth and abundance.
7. Vehicles
Some individuals buy vehicles or make down payments for new vehicles on Dhanteras, as it is believed to be an auspicious day for such purchases.
8. Real Estate
Dhanteras is also considered an opportune time to invest in real estate or property. Many people finalize property transactions on this day.
9. Home Appliances
Purchasing new home appliances, such as washing machines, refrigerators, or televisions, is a modern twist to the Dhanteras tradition. It signifies upgrading one’s lifestyle.
10. Prayer Items
People buy items like incense sticks, camphor, and other prayer essentials to perform aarti (ritual prayer) to seek Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings. What to buy on Dhanteras is best answered by these ideas.
How to Celebrate Dhanteras?
After knowing what to buy on Dhanteras, it is necessary to know how to celebrate Dhanteras. The celebration of Dhanteras is not limited to shopping; it involves several rituals and customs.
Here’s how people celebrate Dhanteras:
Cleaning and Decorating
Homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with colorful rangoli designs and flower decorations to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
Lakshmi Puja
In the evening, a special puja (prayer ceremony) is performed to invoke Goddess Lakshmi. Devotees offer sweets, fruits, and the purchased items to the deity.
Lighting Lamps
Oil lamps and diyas are lit both inside and outside the house to illuminate the surroundings and dispel darkness.
Listening to Stories
Families often gather to listen to stories and legends associated with Dhanteras, emphasizing the importance of wealth and prosperity.
Visiting Temples
Many people visit temples dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi to seek her blessings and participate in special aarti ceremonies.
Exchanging Gifts
It’s common for families and friends to exchange gifts and sweets on this occasion as a token of love and blessings.
Feasting
Elaborate meals are prepared, and families come together to enjoy delicious feasts.
Conclusion
Dhanteras is not merely a shopping spree but a time-honored tradition that embodies the spirit of wealth, prosperity, and well-being. It is a day to express gratitude for the abundance in our lives and to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
Whether through the purchase of precious metals, utensils, or spiritual items, Dhanteras serves as a reminder of the importance of wealth in our lives and the need to use it wisely for the greater good. We hope you got an answer to your query on what to buy on Dhanteras.