Dhanteras is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Dhan means wealth, and ‘teras’ means 13. Dhanteras is commonly known as Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanvantari Trayodashi. It is the foremost day of the 5 days long Diwali celebrations, and it is considered an auspicious occasion to buy gold jewelry and new utensils. According to the Vikram Samvat Hindu calendar, in the month of Karthik, the 13th day of Krishna Paksha, is observed as Dhanteras. In fact, just like any other Hindu festival, even Dhanteras celebrations are linked to the famous Hindu mythological folktales and stories.
1. Stories Associated With the Celebrations of Dhanteras
Well, there’s an interesting insight behind this festival, and for this people also worship Lord Yamaraja on this day. As per one of the popular stories, a horoscope predicted that a 16-year-old son of King Hima was doomed to die on the 4th day of his marriage after getting bitten by a snake. However, on the 4th day of his marriage, his wife decided to turn the table around. She made all the efforts and ensured that her husband didn’t sleep, as she kept on narrating the stories to keep him awake.
To lure the snake away, she displayed all her gold ornaments and coins at the entrance of the kingdom. Well, it is believed that the God of Death came in the form of a snake, and he was blinded by all the dazzling jewelry and coins. As a result of all this, the snake could not enter the prince’s chamber and also got hooked to his wife’s stories and songs. Hence, it is believed that he silently left the palace and bared the life of the prince. If you are someone who has a niche for historical stories, you will be amazed to read this story. This popular story features Lord Dhanvantari, who was a physician to the Gods, and also an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who came out of the ocean that was believed to be churned by the Gods on the day of Dhanteras.
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2. Significance of Dhanteras
On the holy occasion of Dhanteras, people purchase new clothes, gold jewelry, utensils, and new gadgets. It is also believed that buying gold and silver on Dhanteras, will bring more wealth, and prosperity to the family. On Dhanteras, people also worship Lord Dhanvantri, who was the God of Ayurveda. According to some old and ancient texts, Lord Dhanvantri imparted the wisdom of Ayurveda for the betterment of humankind. Some people also believe that goddess Lakshmi came out of the ocean during the churning of the milky sea with a pot of gold and wealth on this day.
3. Dhanteras Puja
Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped again after 2 days of Diwali. And on the occasion of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi is also worshipped with Lord Ganesha. As per Drikpanchang, the Dhanteras Puja should be conducted during the pradosh kaal which starts right after the sunset. However, the best time to start the Dhanteras puja should be done during the Pradosh kaal during the sthir lagna. Sthir means fixed. Dhanteras is an auspicious time and it is believed that goddess Lakshmi stays inside the home.
4. Dhanteras Celebrations With Kids
As already mentioned, Dhanteras is celebrated 2 days before Diwali. As a part of ongoing festivities, you can ask your children to help you with filling colors in the rangoli design. Apart from dhanteras rangoli, you can also ask your children to help you with painting the diyas or decorating the house with colorful decorations and lanterns.
Diwali is not only about happiness and positivity, but it is also about invoking the hidden artist in your child. You can also seek help from PiggyRide and look for the best craft option for your home decor this festive season.
Related Article: 5 Solid Reasons Why Art And Creativity Are Important For Your Kids
Final Verdict
With Diwali just around the corner, the festivities have already begun. This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on the 2nd of November 2021. The Dhanteras festival is performed during the evenings and the diyas are lit all around the house. People also decorate their balconies and verandas with colorful dhanteras rangoli to spread warmth and positive vibes. At PiggyRide, we hope that may Goddess Lakshmi bless everyone with good fortune and wealth. Keep yourself updated with all the upcoming events and contests.
Happy Dhanteras!
WRITTEN BY:
Ridhi Dogra
Hi Friends! I am Ridhi Dogra.
I am working as a Content Writer with PiggyRide. I graduated from Delhi University with a bachelor's degree in Home Science and I did my post-graduation in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University. I am an avid reader, a passionate traveler, and a movie buff.
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