Dhanteras: India is a country with many diverse cultures and rich customs, and it celebrates many festivals all year long. One of the biggest celebrations in the Indian subcontinent is Diwali, sometimes referred to as Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanvantari Jayanti. Millions of Indians look forward to the five-day Diwali celebration, which starts on this auspicious day and is celebrated for five days. We shall explore the meaning, customs, and cultural significance of Dhanteras in this piece.
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Importance of Dhanteras
Dhanteras falls on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik. The word “Dhanteras” is a combination of two words: “Dhan,” meaning wealth, and “Teras,” signifying the thirteenth day. It is believed that performing various rituals and customs on Dhanteras can bring immense wealth, prosperity, and good fortune to households.
Dhanteras: Top Ten Things People Often Buy :
- Gold and Silver: Purchasing gold and silver coins, jewelry, or other items made of these precious metals is a common tradition. It is believed to bring wealth and financial stability.
- Utensils: Buying new utensils, especially made of silver or brass, is considered propitious. These utensils are often used for cooking or as part of religious rituals.
- Home Decor: People often invest in home decor items, such as artwork, decorative lamps, or furniture, to enhance the beauty of their homes.
- Electronic Appliances: Many individuals choose to buy electronic appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, or televisions as they symbolize modern wealth and convenience.
- Vehicles: Some people prefer to purchase new vehicles, such as cars or scooters, on this day, believing it will bring prosperity and mobility into their lives.
- Real Estate: It is considered an auspicious day for investing in real estate or buying a new house. This is a significant purchase and signifies long-term prosperity.
- Kitchen Appliances: Upgrading or buying new kitchen appliances like a microwave, oven, or food processor is a practical way to mark the occasion.
- Books: Books symbolize knowledge and wisdom, and buying books can be a way to invest in personal growth and learning.
- Clothing and Jewelry: Purchasing new clothing and jewelry items is a common tradition, particularly for women, to add to their wardrobes and adorn themselves.
- Spiritual Items: Many people buy spiritual items such as idols of deities, puja accessories, or meditation tools. This is a way to invest in one’s spiritual well-being and connect with higher consciousness.
Dhanteras: Things People Should Not Buy :
Iron Items: Since iron is said to be connected to negative energy, purchasing iron objects during Dhanteras is deemed unlucky.
Sharp Objects: Since they could represent severing bonds or relationships, sharp objects like knives, scissors, and other similar items are avoided.
Items with a Black Color: In Indian culture, black is frequently connected to bad luck or negative energy. Consequently, people tend to steer clear of purchasing anything black.
Products Associated with Rahu: According to Vedic astrology, purchasing products related to the planet Rahu, like those dyed blue or indigo, is not advised on Dhanteras.
Used or Second-Hand products: Since it is a day for new beginnings and fresh begins, it is not recommended to purchase used or second-hand products on this day.
Broom or Cleaning Supplies: It’s best to stay away from buying any supplies related to cleaning on Dhanteras, including brooms and cleaning instruments. This is due to the fact that Dhanteras is a day to welcome wealth and success, and cleaning supplies could represent sweeping money away.
Empty Containers: It is not advised to buy empty containers or vessels as they could represent emptiness or a lack of abundance.
Clothes Made of Cotton or Linen: In certain cultures, cotton and linen are materials connected to grief. As a result, on Dhanteras, people can decide not to purchase apparel made of these materials.
Conclusion
The holiday of Dhanteras represents the essence of wealth, joy, and health. In India, it marks the start of the lavish Diwali celebrations, when people light up their houses, hearts, and lives. People get more connected to their spiritual and cultural heritage during Dhanteras by engaging in rituals like pujas, lighting diyas, and purchasing precious metals. It serves as a gentle reminder to value not just the material possessions we own but also the priceless gifts of good health, wisdom, and love.