Mumbai: The Diwali season’s first celebration, Dhanteras, symbolises wealth and well-being, observed on the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha in Kartik. Falling this year on October 29, Dhanteras honours Lord Dhanvantari, Maa Lakshmi, and Lord Kuber—deities linked with health, wealth, and prosperity. Traditionally, people celebrate Dhanteras by purchasing gold, silver, or brass items, considered symbols of fortune and abundance.
In Hindu culture, Dhanteras holds profound spiritual importance. It dates back to the legend of the Samudra Manthan, or the Great Churning of the Ocean, where Lord Dhanvantari, the divine healer, emerged with a pot of amrit (nectar), signifying health and fortune. This act laid the foundation for observing Dhanteras as a day to invite blessings of prosperity and health into homes, with devotees offering prayers and purchasing auspicious items as a mark of devotion.
Purchasing gold, silver, or brass items is a key Dhanteras custom. According to myth, when Lord Dhanvantari appeared, he carried a pot crafted from precious metals, inspiring the tradition of buying these metals on this auspicious day. Gold and silver are believed to attract positive energy; households often bring in silver idols, utensils, or jewellery. Brass, seen as Lord Dhanvantari’s preferred metal, is also viewed as a sacred purchase to honour his blessings.
Those observing Dhanteras through shopping can expect the entire day on October 29, extending into October 30, 2024, as favourable. Here are the best times to make purchases:
Chara (General Period): 9:18 AM – 10:41 AM
Labha (Advantageous Period): 10:41 AM – 12:05 PM
Amrit (Best Period): 12:05 PM – 1:28 PM
Labha (Advantageous Period): 7:15 PM – 8:51 PM
This year’s Dhanteras will also witness the rare Tripushkar Yoga, from 6:31 AM on October 29 to 10:31 AM on October 30, believed to enhance the blessings of purchased items threefold, making it an ideal time for families to acquire gold, silver, and brass as they prepare for Diwali.
