The festival of Diwali is a five-day-long celebration that starts with the first day of Diwali as “Dhanteras” also known as ‘Dhanatrayodash’.
Diwali, the festival of lights is one of the most important Hindu festivals, the preparations start from a month ago right from cleaning the home to decorating the home. A festival that goes beyond cultures and religions, Diwali marks the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.
That festive spirit of decorating our homes with rangolis, flowers, earthen lamps, garlands, lanterns and gifting to family and friends makes it so much special.
Dhanteras
‘Dhan’ means wealth and ‘Teras’ which means thirteen. The day falls on the thirteen lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of the calendar, every year. It is considered a very auspicious day where people buy gold, silver, new clothes, gadgets as a sign of good fortune and a new beginning.
It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi emerged with a pot of gold during ‘Amrit-Manthan’
Traditionally things we buy on Dhanteras!
1. Gold, silver, brass and copper items:
I remember buying gold or silver coins during my childhood which were also worshipped during the Diwali Pooja. Some people buy Brass and copper as well.
2. Lakshmi Ganesh idols:
Buying Lakshmi Ganesh idols on Diwali is also considered auspicious and people buy their idol in Silver or made of clay to use during Pooja.
3. Utensils:
We also go with buying Utensils as well like plates, spoons, glasses etc and just avoid sharp objects when purchasing.
4. Broom:
Not everyone goes with it but people do believe that a broom removes negativity from the house as they consider it to be the house of Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi and broom will remove all financial worries related to the home and is assumed to be lucky.
5. Home Appliances/Gadgets
Nowadays people consider buying their new gadgets or home appliances on Diwali and you have a whole range to choose from a phone, laptop, refrigerator, air conditioner, television, microwave.
6. Starting /Investing in a business:
As this day is considered auspicious so people start their business or open a new shop or office. Some even open a new Bank account as well.
Happy Dhanteras from us!! 🎇
Pooja Kawatra
