Dhanteras, the first day of the five-day Diwali festival, holds significant significance in Hindu culture. The jubilee is deeply embedded in themes of substance, health, and the festivity of wealth.
Dhanteras is associated with Lord Dhanvantari, the godly croaker, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. It’s believed that he surfaced from the ocean with a pot of Amrit during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the Ocean). Because he symbolizes health and mending, Dhanteras is a day to supplicate for good health and life.
Worship of Wealth and Prosperity” Dhan” means wealth, and on this day, Hindus worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and substance, and Kubera, the god of wealth. The day is considered auspicious for making new investments, copping precious particulars, and bringing new items into the home to emblematize inviting substances.
Dhanteras is an auspicious time to start new gambles or invest in means, as it’s believed to bring good fortune. Buying gold or silver symbolizes the desire for long-lasting substance.
Preparation for Dhanteras marks the start of the Diwali celebration, one of the most important Hindu fests. Homes are gutted and decorated with rangolis, and lights are lit to prepare for Diwali.
Dhanteras encourages a spirit of liberality and spending, which strengthens social bonding and supports frugality. People exchange gifts, purchase particulars, and shop for their families, which energizes commerce and boosts the gleeful spirit in society.
People also light a diya( beacon) at the entrance of the house or in front of Lord Yama, the god of death, to protect family members from early death and mischance. This custom is believed to ensure the health and safety of loved ones.
Dhanteras reflects the Hindu values of substance, health, renewal, and reverence, making it a day of joyous festivity and hopeful onsets for the time ahead.
