Dhanteras: Welcoming Wealth and Wellness
Dhanteras: Welcoming Wealth and Wellness
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival in India. Falling on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu month of Ashwin, Dhanteras is dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and to Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician. This festival celebrates prosperity, health, and the joy of auspicious beginnings.
The Origin and Mythological Significance
The word ‘Dhanteras’ combines Dhan (wealth) and Teras (thirteen), representing the day when wealth is welcomed into homes and businesses. One of the most prominent legends associated with Dhanteras is the emergence of Lord Dhanvantari during the Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean by the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras). Lord Dhanvantari appeared holding a pot filled with Amrit (nectar of immortality) and became the divine harbinger of health and wellness.
A Sanskrit verse honours Dhanvantari’s role in sustaining health and well-being:
“ॐ श्री धन्वन्तरये नमः
सर्वामयविनाशाय महायोगाय नमो नमः ॥”
“Salutations to Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician, who eradicates all diseases and is the source of all health and vitality.”
Significance and Beliefs
Dhanteras is highly auspicious for buying precious metals like gold and silver, as they symbolise everlasting prosperity and protection against negative energies. It is believed that wealth bought on Dhanteras brings blessings for generations, and therefore, people purchase new jewellery, utensils, and sometimes even cars and property.
The festival also carries the essence of warding off premature death.
According to legend, a prince was prophesied to die of a snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. His wife, in a bid to save him, placed a heap of gold and silver at the door, illuminated the surroundings, and stayed awake singing songs. Entranced by the brightness and music, Yama, the god of death, refrained from entering, thus sparing the prince’s life.
The following verse is chanted for prosperity and protection:
“धनदाय नमस्तुभ्यं निधिपद्मधराय च।
गृहेते ते भविष्यन्ति सर्वे लक्ष्मी गणाधिपाः ॥”
“Salutations to the Giver of Wealth, bearer of the treasure lotus, who brings prosperity and all the forms of Lakshmi into one’s home.”
The Celebrations
The day begins with cleaning and decorating homes. Colourful rangoli (patterns made with powdered colours) adorns doorways, and marigold flowers add vibrancy to the surroundings. Diyas (earthen lamps) are lit to dispel darkness and invite positive energy.
In the evening, a small ritual is held in front of a silver or brass idol of Lakshmi. People offer prayers with flowers, sweets, and money, seeking her blessings for wealth and well-being. Some families perform Yamadeepdan, where a diya is placed outside the house for Lord Yama to prevent any untimely misfortune.
It is also a significant day for Vaids (traditional healers) and Ayurvedic doctors, who honour Dhanvantari by lighting lamps in their clinics, symbolising a commitment to health.
Modern Celebrations and Traditions
While traditional rituals continue, modern celebrations include online shopping, investment in gold funds, and charitable donations as part of giving back to society. Despite the changing times, the essence of Dhanteras – gratitude for prosperity and hope for health – endures as families come together to welcome wealth and wellness in the year ahead.
May Dhanteras bring health, happiness, and an abundance of prosperity to all.
