Dhanteras is an extremely auspicious and significant Hindu festival and is celebrated on the 13th lunar day of Krishna Paksha in Ashwin, one of the months of the Hindu calendar. This year it falls on Tuesday, October 29th. The name “Dhanteras” is known to be a combination of two Sanskrit words meaning “Dhan” or wealth and “Teras” which emphasizes the 13th day.
On this festival day, people devote themselves to the age-old ritual of purchasing gold and silver jewelry, vehicles and utensils to welcome prosperity in life with full faith and confidence. It is particularly a holy day to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, considered the goddess of wealth, and Lord Ganesha, the god of knowledge.

In Hindu mythology, Dhanteras is referred to as the day when Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the sea during the oceanic churning of the Kshira Sagar, popularly known as ‘Samundra Manthan’. On this day, the god of medicine, Lord Dhanvantari, also appeared with the ‘Amrit’, known for its eternal purity, divinity and immortality. And so material wealth, health and well-being are brought into the home on Dhanteras, making it an immensely important day in Hindu culture.
Dhanteras 2024 Historical Significance
Dhanteras is of great historical, mythological and cultural importance. It is known to be significant and celebrated for three main reasons related to mythology.
The first reason is the belief that on this special day, Goddess Lakshmi came from the Kshira Sagar carrying a vessel full of gold and accompanied by Lord Kuber, the god of wealth. Both deities are honored during the festival.

Another extremely popular story tells of a prince who died from a snakebite on the fourth night of his marriage. To save him, his wife kept him awake by filling the room with glowing gold and silver coins, singing and telling stories. When Yama, the god of death, came as a snake, he was enchanted and distracted by all the gold, so the prince was saved. This wise decision becomes a sign of wisdom and love and is called Dhanteras.
The festival is also associated with Dhanvantari, the god of health. According to mythology, when the ocean was churned for ‘Amrit’, Dhanvantari emerged with a pot of nectar. Dhanteras is considered a festival that brings health and prosperity, which makes it even more meaningful for people.
Dhanteras 2024: Preparations for the celebration. Early morning rituals
The day begins very early in the morning with a refreshing bath, which symbolizes purity. Cleaning the house and especially the puja area is important to create a sacred space. This clean environment is believed to attract positive energy.
Dhanteras 2024: Home Decoration
Decoration is the next step after cleaning. Bright flowers, colorful rangoli designs and lights are used to create a welcoming atmosphere for deities. Decoration not only decorates the houses but also invites divine blessings.
Construction of the holy puja platformChange of arrangement
Place the puja altar in a clean and well-ventilated place. Ideally it should face east or north. Place idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi in a prominent place and you can include Lord Kuber or other deities you worship. Surround the idols with flowers, fruits and sweets to make the altar full of colors.
Lighting the diya
A puja should begin with lighting a diya with ghee. It is believed to be a symbol of illuminating the darkness and gloom of ignorance. Then first invoke Lord Ganesha and then chant his mantra to remove the obstacles.
Carrying out the puja
Call on the deities
With the arrival of Lord Ganesha, it is now the turn of Goddess Lakshmi. Recite her mantra to attain her prosperity and abundance of blessings. It is important to offer flowers, sweets and fruits to these deities to dedicate oneself to the Almighty.

Dhanteras 2024: Aarti and Prasad

End the puja with the aarti ceremony, where diyas are waved in front of the deities. This act symbolizes awe and gratitude. Share the prasad with family and friends, something that gives the feel of a community celebration.
Dhanteras 2024 Rituals and TraditionsEvening CelebrationsDhanteras is traditionally celebrated in the evening. It is customary to draw footprints leading into the house, symbolizing the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi. Families often purchase new utensils or jewelry on this day as a gesture of welcoming wealth. Dhanteras 2024 Offering of Holy Foods
At the time of Puja, special offerings like Panchamrit and Naivedya and sweets like Motichoor Ladoo and Kheer are prepared. These are provided to the deities for the feast and then shared with family members.
Dhanteras 2024 celebrations in different regions of India, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab
It is common for families to purchase gold or silver jewelry as it is believed to bring good luck. Special prayers are performed in homes and temples. People often invite priests to perform blessing rituals. Dhanteras marks the beginning of preparations for Diwali, during which houses are thoroughly cleaned and decorated.

South India

Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

The day is often associated with Lord Dhanvantari, with health being at the forefront. Many people buy new kitchen utensils or cooking utensils. Families prepare special sweets and dishes, some even prepare dishes using new ingredients purchased that day. The houses are decorated with lamps and many perform a ritual bath before the evening puja.

West Indies

Gujarat and Maharashtra

In Gujarat, people often hold fairs or community gatherings with music and dancing to celebrate. Traders particularly focus on creating new accounting books, thereby marking the financial year. Intricate rangoli designs are made in front of houses, often depicting themes of wealth and prosperity.
East India, Bengal and Odisha
In Bengal, the focus is more on Goddess Lakshmi, where families perform elaborate pujas. People often buy new clothes and sweets and exchange them with neighbors and friends. Some areas have cultural programs and fairs that celebrate local traditions.
Central IndiaMadhya Pradesh
People perform rituals to invoke blessings for prosperity, often involving the entire family. Specific local customs and traditions may vary, but the general theme of wealth and health remains consistent.
While the main theme of Dhanteras – wealth, health and prosperity – remains constant, the way in which it is celebrated varies significantly from region to region. Each area adds its unique cultural touch, creating a rich tapestry of traditions that enhance the festive spirit of this auspicious day.
Dhanteras 2024: What to buy and avoid Utensils
On Dhanteras it is cheap to buy utensils made of brass, copper or silver. Avoid items made of steel or iron. Remember: It is believed that you should not take home empty utensils. Fill them with food or water first.
Broom
Buying a broom on this day is considered a good luck charm because it symbolizes the removal of financial worries.
Electronic items
If you are thinking about new electronics, Dhanteras is a good time to buy phones, laptops or music players as these purchases are considered good luck.
Gomti Chakra
Consider purchasing a Gomti Chakra, a sacred sea snail from the Gomti River. It is believed to bring success and protect against the evil eye, making it a special addition for Diwali Puja.
Business ventures
If you are planning to start a business or open a store, Dhanteras is extremely auspicious. Many people perform Lakshmi puja on this day to attain happiness.
Gold and silver
For those who want to invest, buying gold or silver is highly recommended. Even a coin made from these metals means wealth and financial stability.