Dhanteras marks the start of the five-day Diwali festival, which runs through Bhai Dooj. The auspicious time for buying gold, silver, or utensils varies by city, so check a local panchang.
Significance of Dhanteras
The word 'Dhanteras' comes from 'Dhan' (wealth) and 'Trayodashi' (the thirteenth tithi). It is believed that Lord Dhanvantari emerged during the Samudra Manthan on this very tithi, carrying a pot of amrit in his hand. Dhanvantari is regarded as the deity of Ayurveda and medicine, which is why he is worshipped on this day for health and longevity.
According to another legend, King Hima's son was fated to die of a snakebite on the fourth day of his marriage. On the wedding night, his wife lit lamps and laid out gold and silver ornaments at the doorway; their brilliance kept Yamraj, who had come in serpent form, from entering. This legend is the basis for the tradition of lighting a lamp for Yamraj on Dhanteras night.
It is considered auspicious to buy gold, silver, utensils, or a new vehicle on Dhanteras, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. This day marks the start of the five-day Diwali festival, which continues through Bhai Dooj.
How Dhanteras Is Celebrated
On Dhanteras, homes are cleaned and the main entrance decorated with rangoli. Markets see special buying of gold, silver, utensils, and even a new broom, all regarded as symbols of prosperity.
In the evening, a lamp facing south is lit at the main door for Yamraj, in a ritual called 'Yama Deepdaan', seeking protection for the family from untimely death.
This is followed by the worship of Maa Lakshmi, Lord Ganesh, Dhanvantari, and Kubera at home, and lamps are lit to illuminate the house, marking the formal start of the five-day Diwali celebration.
Dhanteras Puja Vidhi
Bathe in the evening and complete the cleaning and rangoli. Light a lamp facing south at the main door for Yamraj. Then worship Maa Lakshmi, Lord Ganesh, Dhanvantari, and Kubera at home, offer worship to any newly bought utensils or jewellery, and perform the aarti.
About Dhanteras
Dhanteras is the first day of the five-day Diwali festival, marking Lord Dhanvantari's emergence and the tradition of lighting a lamp for Yamraj. This page covers Dhanteras's significance, the legend behind Yama Deepdaan, and the tradition of buying gold and silver, along with the puja vidhi for observing it at home.
See the separate pages for Diwali's following days, Naraka Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. The information on this page is presented with easy-to-read sizing and print support.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Dhanteras observed?
Dhanteras is observed two days before Diwali, on Kartik Krishna Trayodashi tithi.
What is Yama Deepdaan?
Yama Deepdaan is the tradition of lighting a lamp facing south at the main door on Dhanteras night, dedicated to Yamraj, seeking the family's protection from untimely death.
What is considered auspicious to buy on Dhanteras?
Buying gold, silver, utensils, or a new vehicle is considered auspicious, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune.
Which deity is worshipped on Dhanteras?
Dhanteras is mainly dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari and Kubera, along with the worship of Maa Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh.