Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi) marks the triumphant opening of the 5-day Diwali festival. Falling on Trayodashi tithi of Kartik Krishna Paksha, Dhanteras honors Bhagwan Dhanvantari (god of Ayurveda & healing), Lord Kuber (treasurer of gods), and Goddess Lakshmi.
Auspicious Purchases for Dhanteras
- Gold or Silver coins engraved with Goddess Lakshmi & Ganesha.
- Brass, Copper, or Silver utensils (fill them with rice or water before bringing them into the kitchen).
- Broom (Jhadu): Symbolizes sweeping away poverty and welcoming house purity.
- Coriander Seeds (Dhania): Planted or kept in cash boxes to multiply family prosperity.
Dhanvantari & Lord Kuber Puja Vidhi
During Pradosh Kaal, set up a wooden chowki with a yellow cloth. Place an idol or image of Bhagwan Dhanvantari and Lord Kuber.
- Apply Chandan and Kumkum to Lord Kuber and Dhanvantari.
- Offer medicinal herbs or tulsi leaves to Dhanvantari for family disease protection.
- Offer Coriander seeds, Lotus seeds (Makhana), and dry fruits to Lord Kuber.
- Chant the Kuber Mantra: 'Om Yakshaya Kuberaya Vaishravanaya Dhanadhanyadhipataye Dhanadhanyasamriddhim Me Dehi Dapaya Swaha.'
Yamdeepam Ritual (Lighting Diya for Yama)
To protect family members from premature death (Akala Mrityu), a 4-wick wheat flour diya filled with mustard oil is lit outside the house entrance facing South (the direction of Lord Yama) after nightfall.
