Dhanteras 2024: Significance, Rituals & Puja Timings
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is an essential part of the Diwali festival, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and well-being. On this auspicious day, families across India and other parts of the world celebrate by purchasing gold, silver, and other valuable items, believing that it brings good fortune.
The festival takes place two days before Diwali, marking the beginning of the five-day-long festivities. Dhanteras 2024 will be celebrated on October 29, 2024. Whether you’re buying gold or simply performing the traditional puja, this guide will help you understand the significance of Dhanteras and how to perform the rituals correctly.
Significance of Dhanteras
The name Dhanteras comes from two words: Dhan, meaning wealth, and Teras, referring to the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) in the month of Ashwin. Dhanteras is celebrated to honor Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
There is a huge significance of Dhanteras due to its focus on both material as well as spiritual well-being. People believe that worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and purchasing valuable items during Dhanteras puja bring good luck, success, and protection against negative energies. According to Hindu beliefs, this day is also associated with good health, as Lord Dhanvantari brought the nectar of immortality during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).
Also Read: Shardiya Navratri: History & Significance
Dhanteras 2024: Date & Muhurat
If you’re wondering when is Dhanteras in 2024, it falls on October 29, 2024. Lakshmi Puja on Dhanteras should be performed during Pradosh Kaal, which begins after sunset and lasts for about 2 hours and 24 minutes.
The most auspicious time (muhurat) for performing the Dhanteras puja will be between 7:31 PM and 8:32 PM. During this period, it is believed that prayers for wealth and prosperity will be heard more clearly, allowing you to invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi into your home.
The day also aligns with the practice of making significant purchases. Buying items such as gold, silver, and utensils during this auspicious window is thought to attract abundance and fortune into one’s household.
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Rituals and Puja of Dhanteras
Dhanteras rituals are performed with great devotion and joy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can perform the Dhanteras puja at home:
1. Clean and Decorate the House
Begin by cleaning your home thoroughly, as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi only enters clean homes. Decorate your entrance with colorful rangolis and light diyas to attract positive energy.
2. Set Up the Puja Altar
Place an idol or picture of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari in a clean, sacred space. You can also include Lord Kuber, the god of wealth.
3. Offerings
Prepare offerings such as sweets, fruits, and flowers. Light an oil lamp (diya) and incense sticks as you begin the puja.
4. Chanting Mantras
Recite Lakshmi mantras and offer prayers for wealth, prosperity, and good health. The puja is followed by the aarti in honor of the deities.
5. Lighting of Lamps
One of the most significant Dhanteras rituals is the lighting of 13 diyas outside the house as an offering to Yamraj, the god of death. This tradition is believed to protect against untimely death and negative energies.
6. Buying Gold and Utensils
It’s considered highly auspicious to buy gold, silver, or new utensils on Dhanteras. Many families also invest in property or make significant financial decisions on this day, believing it will bring long-term prosperity.
By following these rituals, you align yourself with the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, ensuring health, wealth, and happiness for your family.
Dhanteras Puja Mantras
Mantra to worship Ganesha:
वक्रतुण्ड महाकाय सूर्यकोटि समप्रभ ।
निर्विघ्नं कुरु मे देव सर्वकार्येषु सर्वदा ॥
Mantra to worship Goddess Lakshmi:
ओम श्रीं ह्रीं श्रीं श्रीं कमले कमलालये प्रसीद प्रसीद ओम श्रीं ह्रीं श्रीं महालक्ष्म्यै नमः ।
Mantra to appease Lord Kuber:
ओम यक्षाय कुबेराय वैश्रवणाय धनधान्यपदये
धना-धनाय समुद्भूतं मे देहि दापय स्वाहा ।
Story Behind Dhanteras
Dhanteras is closely associated with two primary legends:
1. The Emergence of Lord Dhanvantari: According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the ocean, Lord Dhanvantari emerged carrying a pot of nectar (Amrit) that granted immortality. This day is therefore dedicated to good health and longevity, with special prayers offered to Lord Dhanvantari.
2. The Story of King Hima’s Son: One of the well-known stories linked to Dhanteras is about King Hima’s son. According to legend, his wife saved him from death by lighting oil lamps and placing jewelry and coins in front of their house.
It is said that this dazzled Yamraj, the god of death, and distracted him from taking the prince’s life. This is why lighting diyas (lamps) and purchasing gold or silver are still popular traditions in Dhanteras, symbolizing protection and prosperity.
Conclusion
Dhanteras is more than just a day for buying gold or celebrating wealth; it is about embracing both material and spiritual well-being. By performing the rituals with devotion and understanding their significance, you invite positive energies and blessings into your life.
If you’re looking to enhance your health, wealth, and prosperity, consider consulting the best astrologer in Delhi, Dr. Sanjay Sethi, for personalized advice on how to maximize your fortune. Book your consultation today for insights on how to make the most of every opportunity in your life!
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