Dhanteras’
The word ‘Dhanteras’ can be divided into two. In Hindi, the word ‘Dhan’ means wealth and the word ‘Tera’ means thirteen. Thus, on the day of Dhanteras, Hindus worship goddess Lakshmi, who is the goddess of wealth. Dhanteras marks the beginning of the immensely popular Hindu festival of Diwali. Apart from being marked as the beginning of Diwali, Dhanteras also falls on the thirteenth day of the Kartik month, according to the Hindu calendar. Dhanteras is an auspicious occasion for Hindu families across the country and the world as well.
Dhanteras Puja Muhurat is not only done for goddess Lakshmi but also Kuber, who is the god of wealth. The shubh Dhanteras Puja Muhurat for goddess Lakshmi and god Kuber is sometimes done together in many Hindu households because it is thought that this will double the benefit of prayers.
Although Dhanteras has become associated with wealth and people buy gold or silver jewellery and utensils on this day and they also gift silver or gold coins, there is no association of either wealth or gold with Dhanvantari, who is a provider of good health rather than wealth.
In modern times, Dhanteras has come to be known as the most auspicious occasion for buying gold, silver and other metals especially kitchenware. The day also sees heavy purchases of appliances and automobiles.
Dhanteras also marks the beginning of the five day festivities of Diwali.
Story behind celebrating Dhanteras :
It is said that King Hima’s 16-year-old son’s death had been predicted on the fourth day of his marriage, through a snake bite. However, as the new bride got to know about it, she placed a heap of her ornaments on the entrance of the room and kept her husband awake throughout the night by singing and narrating stories.
When Lord Yama visited King Hima’s son in the guise of a snake, in order to bite him, he was blinded on seeing the dazzling metal, and instead sat on the pile listening to the new daughter-in-law’s tales.
Since Yama missed the time set for the boy’s death, he slinked away in peace and the prince was saved, leading to the celebration of Dhanteras.
So, don’t forget to welcome lady luck to your house by buying some metal and light tons of diyas to ward-off any evil spirits that may be lurking in unseen corners.
