Dhanteras, also called Dhanatrayodashi, marks the beginning of the grand Diwali celebrations in India. The day is devoted to seeking blessings from Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Kubera, the god of riches. It also honors Lord Dhanvantari, known as the god of health and Ayurveda.
In 2025, Dhanteras will be celebrated on Saturday, October 18. On this day, homes are decorated with lights, flowers, and rangoli designs to invite positive energy and prosperity. People believe that buying new items on Dhanteras, such as gold, silver, or utensils, attracts wealth and good luck.
The festival blends spirituality with prosperity, reminding people to value both material comfort and health. It sets the tone for Diwali’s five-day festivities that symbolize light, renewal, and divine blessings.
Dhanteras 2025: Date and Puja Timings
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Trayodashi Tithi Begins: 12:18 PM (October 18)
- Trayodashi Tithi Ends: 1:51 PM (October 19)
- Pradosh Kaal: 5:48 PM – 8:19 PM
- Vrishabha Kaal: 7:15 PM – 9:11 PM
- Auspicious Puja Time: 7:15 PM – 8:19 PM
Tip: Timings may slightly vary based on your city. It’s recommended to check your local Panchang before performing the puja.
Significance of Dhanteras
Dhanteras holds deep religious and cultural meaning in Hinduism. The term “Dhan” means wealth, and “Teras” refers to the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month.
According to ancient belief, Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean during the churning of the sea, carrying a pot filled with nectar. This symbolizes the arrival of health and longevity in human life. On the same day, Goddess Lakshmi appeared, signifying prosperity and abundance.
Another legend speaks of a young prince whose life was saved from Yama (the god of death) when his wife lit numerous lamps and arranged gold coins at the door, preventing Yama’s entry. This is why people light diyas and buy precious metals on Dhanteras — to drive away negativity and invite light, wealth, and protection.
Rituals and Celebration
Morning Preparations
People begin the day with a holy bath and clean their homes thoroughly. Every corner is dusted and decorated with flowers, torans, and colorful rangolis. Cleanliness is believed to attract divine blessings.
Setting Up the Puja
In the evening, idols or pictures of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari are placed on a decorated altar. Offerings such as flowers, fruits, sweets, rice, coins, and diya lamps are arranged neatly.
Performing the Puja
During the auspicious Pradosh Kaal, devotees perform the Lakshmi-Kubera Puja. Lamps are lit, mantras are chanted, and aarti is sung. Newly bought items are kept before the deities for blessings before use.
Yama Deep Daan
After the puja, a special lamp called Yama Deep is lit and placed facing south near the entrance of the house. It is believed to keep the family safe and free from untimely death. Many families keep diyas burning throughout the night to maintain positivity and light.
What to Buy on Dhanteras (Auspicious Items List)
Gold and Silver: Represents prosperity, purity, and financial growth
Utensils and Cookware: Symbol of nourishment and household abundance
Jewellery: Signifies long-term wealth and prosperity
Electronics and Appliances: Reflects modern progress and comfort
Health-related items: Brings the blessings of Lord Dhanvantari for good health
Buying these items during the auspicious muhurat is believed to strengthen the household’s wealth and fortune throughout the year.
Do’s and Don’ts on Dhanteras
Do’s
- Clean and decorate your home early in the day.
- Buy at least one new item — even a small utensil or silver coin counts.
- Light diyas at the entrance and inside the house.
- Pray to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera with full devotion.
Don’ts
- Avoid borrowing or lending money.
- Don’t purchase black or inauspicious items.
- Avoid using new items before offering them in puja.
- Don’t keep the house dark or unclean — it’s believed to block prosperity.
Cultural Importance
Beyond material prosperity, Dhanteras celebrates gratitude, purity, and preparation for Diwali. The lighting of diyas signifies the removal of darkness — both external and internal. It teaches that true wealth is not only gold or silver but also health, family, and happiness.
Markets across India bustle with excitement, from jewellery shops to utensil stalls. It’s also a time for families to come together, share sweets, and start the festive season on a hopeful note.
