Dhanteras 2024, When and How it is Celebrated?

Dhanteras is the first day of the five-day Diwali festival celebrated mainly in India. It occurs on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartika, which usually falls in October or November. This day is special because it is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and is associated with the worship of wealth and prosperity.

Dhanteras 2024 – Date

This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29. It falls on the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month (October to November), as per the Hindu calendar. This day marks the start of Diwali, one of the biggest Hindu festivals.

Dhanteras 2024 – Shubh Muhurat and Timings

Performing the Dhanteras puja at the right time is important for inviting wealth and prosperity into the home. Here are the details for the best times to perform the rituals:

• Dhanteras Puja Muhurat: 7:00 PM to 8:49 PM (lasting for 1 hour and 49 minutes)
• Pradosh Kaal: 6:12 PM to 8:53 PM
• Vrishabha Kaal: 7:00 PM to 8:49 PM
• Trayodashi Tithi Begins: 1:01 AM on October 29
• Trayodashi Tithi Ends: 3:45 AM on October 30

History of Dhanteras

The word “Dhanteras” comes from two words: “Dhan,” which means wealth, and “Teras,” which means thirteen. It is celebrated on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. Every year, Dhanteras takes place one or two days before Diwali, marking the start of the festive season.

Significance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras is a day to worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. People believe that worshipping these deities brings health, wealth, and happiness. On this day, homes are cleaned and decorated, and people buy new items such as utensils, jewellery, and household goods to bring good luck.

Rituals and Celebrations of Dhanteras 2024

Dhanteras is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People clean their homes, decorate them with lights, and create beautiful rangoli designs. Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari is an important part of the day, along with lighting diyas (lamps) and buying new items. Many people also consider it auspicious to buy gold, silver, or other valuables.

Why do People Buy Gold, Silver and Other Items on Dhanteras?

Purchasing items made of gold, silver, utensils, and even brooms is considered lucky on Dhanteras. These purchases are believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and ward off negative energy. It is a tradition for families to clean and decorate their homes, preparing them to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.

Popular Gift Ideas for Dhanteras

On Dhanteras, people often give gifts to loved ones. Some popular gift ideas include:

• Silver coins
• Handmade idols of gods and goddesses
• Copper or brass utensils like mugs or bowls
• Diyas (oil lamps) and candles
• Decorative items like rangoli patterns