Dhanteras is a highly significant festival in Hinduism, celebrated two days before Diwali. This festival marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations and is associated with wealth, prosperity, good health, and long life. In 2024, the auspicious time for Dhanteras puja will last for 1 hour and 41 minutes. Let’s delve into the key elements of this auspicious day, including the exact date for Dhanteras 2024, important rituals, and items to avoid.
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Significance of Dhanteras
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is observed on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik. The name “Dhanteras” is derived from “Dhan,” meaning wealth, and “Teras,” meaning the thirteenth day. This day is considered highly auspicious for purchasing valuable items like gold, silver, and utensils.
According to tradition, on Dhanteras, Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kuber are worshipped for wealth, prosperity, and good health.Lord Dhanvantari, considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is the deity of Ayurveda and good health. He is believed to have emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), holding the nectar of immortality. His presence is said to bring longevity and protection from diseases.
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Auspicious Timings for Dhanteras in 2024
Dhanteras 2024 will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29. The festival begins at 10:31 AM on October 29 and ends at 1:15 PM on October 30, according to the Drik Panchang. The most favorable time for performing the Dhanteras puja is from 6:31 PM to 8:13 PM on October 29.
In addition, there are two key periods for making purchases during Dhanteras:
Tripushkar Yoga: From 6:32 AM on October 29 to 10:30 AM on October 30. Buying during this period is believed to bring long-lasting benefits.
Abhijeet Muhurat: Lasts from 11:42 AM to 12:27 PM on October 29, a time considered ideal for making purchases that bring prosperity and happiness.
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Rituals to Follow on Dhanteras
Dhanteras rituals are straightforward yet significant. On the morning of Dhanteras, devotees rise early, take a bath, and wear yellow clothes, which symbolize positivity and prosperity. In the evening, the house or temple area is cleaned, and the idols of Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Ganesha are placed for worship.
Worship begins with lighting a ghee lamp and offering flowers, sandalwood paste, and tilak to the deities. Special attention is given to cleaning the entrance of the house, where small lamps are placed to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. A key part of the ritual is offering the newly purchased items (utensils, jewelry, etc.) to the deities during puja.
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What to Avoid Buying or Giving on Dhanteras
While Dhanteras is considered an auspicious day for purchases, there are some items to avoid. According to Hindu beliefs, the following should not be bought or given as gifts on this day:
Glass, Iron, Steel, Aluminum, and Plastic Items: These materials are considered inauspicious and are believed to bring bad luck.
Black Clothing: Black is associated with negative energy and is not recommended for purchase or wear on Dhanteras.
Loans and Negative Thoughts: Avoid taking any loans or indulging in negative thoughts, as these actions could result in financial difficulties and misfortune in the future.
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Conclusion
Dhanteras 2024, celebrated on October 29, is a day that heralds wealth, prosperity, and health for the year ahead. By observing the correct rituals and making auspicious purchases while avoiding inauspicious items, devotees can ensure blessings for a prosperous and healthy life. Through the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kuber, this festival marks the beginning of Diwali and the promise of fortune and well-being.
