Dhanteras (Dhantrayodashi) Festival 2025

Dhanteras opens the Diwali season with a focus on wealth, health, and spiritual renewal. The day honors Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and Lord Dhanvantari for well-being, blending material success with inner balance.

In 2025 the festival falls on Tuesday, 21 October, with the Dhantrayodashi 2025 rituals beginning on the evening of 20 October and continuing into the next night. Families prepare for Lakshmi puja on Dhanteras by decorating their homes, lighting lamps, and setting up altars to invite abundance.

The extended muhurta is ideal for the traditional Dhanteras gold purchase 2025, a practice believed to attract lasting fortune while marking the start of joyful Diwali celebrations.

What is Dhanteras? (Meaning & Origin)

Dhanteras marks the first day of Diwali and is dedicated to both material prosperity and lasting health. The name combines the Sanskrit words Dhan, meaning wealth, and Teras, meaning the thirteenth day, pointing to its observance on the thirteenth lunar day of the Kartik month. It signals the start of the festival of lights and is considered one of the most auspicious days for inviting fortune into the home.

The origin of Dhanteras reaches back to the Samudra Manthan, the cosmic churning of the Ocean of Milk by devas and asuras to obtain amrit, the nectar of immortality. During this event Goddess Lakshmi emerged holding the promise of abundance, while Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and Father of Ayurveda, rose carrying the amrit kalash filled with the nectar of eternal health. Their appearance established Dhanteras as a day honoring both wealth and wellbeing.

Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, Kubera as the keeper of treasures, and Lord Dhanvantari for protection from disease. Families perform Lakshmi and Kubera puja along with Dhanvantari puja vidhi, light lamps, and chant Dhanvantari mantra for health to seek blessings of financial stability and robust vitality. These observances make Dhanteras a festival where spiritual harmony and worldly success come together at the very start of Diwali.

Dhanteras 2025 Date and Muhurat

On this evening the Sun will be in Libra and the Moon will transit Virgo, creating a balanced planetary alignment that supports both wealth and health rituals. This combination is viewed as favorable for inviting prosperity and ensuring stability for the months ahead.

During the puja muhurat devotees light lamps, perform Lakshmi and Kubera puja, and observe Dhanvantari puja vidhi for health and vitality. The time is also ideal for a Dhanteras gold or silver purchase, bringing auspicious energy and attracting long term prosperity as the Diwali festival begins.

Significance of Dhanteras

Wealth and Prosperity

Dhanteras significance and importance lie in its power to invite abundance and secure financial well-being. The name joins Dhan, meaning wealth, with Teras, the thirteenth lunar day, marking it as the ideal time to attract fortune. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Kubera and follow Dhanteras remedies for wealth and prosperity, such as purchasing gold, silver, or new utensils to draw positive energy and long term growth. The glow of new valuables is believed to strengthen household prosperity and set a blessed tone for the Diwali 2025 first day Dhanteras.

Health and Longevity

The festival also celebrates Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and eternal Father of Ayurveda. His emergence with the amrit kalash during the Samudra Manthan makes this day a sacred occasion for health and vitality. Families perform Dhanvantari puja vidhi Dhanteras and chant healing mantras while observing National Ayurveda Day on Dhanteras, which promotes natural medicine and the balance of mind, body, and spirit. These rituals honor the divine healer and are believed to strengthen immunity and extend life.

Protection and Light

Yama Deep Daan Dhanteras is another key custom that brings protection and peace. In the evening families light thirteen earthen lamps at entrances or courtyards and pray to Yama, the deity of death, to safeguard loved ones from untimely harm. The light of the diyas is said to dispel darkness, create a shield of divine energy, and invite harmony into the home.

Family Bonding and Spiritual Enrichment

Dhanteras also fosters family unity and spiritual awareness. Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli, and relatives gather to perform collective prayers and share festive meals. These shared acts of devotion strengthen love and gratitude while preparing households for the joyous days of Diwali. Together these practices highlight the complete meaning of Dhanteras, blending prosperity, health, protection, and inner fulfillment in a single sacred celebration.

Legends and Stories Behind Dhanteras

Samudra Manthan

One of the oldest and most important legends of Dhanteras begins with the Samudra Manthan, the churning of the cosmic Ocean of Milk. The devas and asuras joined forces to obtain amrit, the nectar of immortality, using the Mandara mountain as a churning rod and the serpent Vasuki as the rope. From the swirling ocean emerged many treasures, but the most celebrated were Goddess Lakshmi, who embodies wealth and abundance, and Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and Father of Ayurveda. Lord Dhanvantari appeared carrying the sacred amrit kalash filled with the nectar of eternal life, along with a conch, chakra, and healing herbs. His emergence established the link between Dhanteras and both material prosperity and lasting health, inspiring devotees to honor Goddess Lakshmi for fortune and Lord Dhanvantari for vitality through Dhanvantari puja vidhi Dhanteras and related rituals.

King Hima and Yama Deep Daan

Another famous narrative explains the practice of Yama Deep Daan Dhanteras. King Hima’s horoscope foretold that he would die from a snakebite on the fourth night after his marriage. His young bride refused to accept this fate. On the predicted night she spread her gold ornaments and silver coins in a glittering heap at the doorway and lit countless lamps throughout the house. She entertained her husband with songs and stories to keep him awake. When Yama, the god of death, arrived in the form of a serpent, the brilliance of the lamps and precious metals dazzled his eyes. Unable to enter, he quietly departed, sparing the king’s life. To commemorate this victory over untimely death, families now light thirteen diyas outside their homes on Dhanteras evening, praying for protection and long life.

Lakshmi and the Farmer’s Wife

The Dhanteras vrat katha also tells of a humble farmer and his devoted wife who welcomed Goddess Lakshmi with heartfelt reverence. The wife cleaned their modest dwelling, created intricate rangoli patterns, and lit rows of lamps to invite the goddess. Moved by her devotion and the purity of her heart, Goddess Lakshmi blessed the household with prosperity and happiness that endured through generations. This story explains why families prepare their homes with care and decorate with rangoli on Dhanteras, showing that sincere devotion and cleanliness attract the blessings of wealth and abundance more than riches or status.

These legends capture the full meaning of Dhanteras significance and importance. They reveal a festival that celebrates divine health through Lord Dhanvantari, wealth through Goddess Lakshmi, and protection from misfortune through the ritual of Yama Deep Daan. Each story enriches the tradition and reminds devotees that faith, devotion, and mindful preparation bring both material prosperity and spiritual well-being as Diwali begins.

Rituals and Traditions of Dhanteras

Preparations

Dhanteras preparations begin early in the day to create a pure and inviting atmosphere for the evening puja. Families thoroughly clean every room, believing that a spotless home attracts the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Kubera. Doors, windows, and entrances are polished and decorated to welcome positive energy and prosperity. Many households also rearrange furniture and discard broken or unused items to remove stagnant vibrations and make space for new wealth.

Colorful rangolis are drawn at thresholds and courtyards using rice flour, natural colors, and flower petals. These designs are not only decorative but are seen as symbols of protection and prosperity, guiding the goddess into the home. As dusk approaches, rows of oil diyas are lit around entrances, balconies, and windowsills. The steady glow of these lamps is believed to drive away darkness and negativity while inviting the divine presence of Lakshmi, Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari. Keeping at least one diya burning through the night is a cherished custom, signifying continuous light, good fortune, and spiritual warmth as the Dhanteras celebrations begin.

Puja Rituals Step by Step

The evening worship begins with Ganesh Puja to remove obstacles and invite success. Devotees place a clean idol or image of Bhagwan Ganesha on the altar, offer flowers, incense, and sweets, and chant “Om Gam Ganapataye Namah,” seeking wisdom and a smooth completion of the rituals.

Next comes Kuber Puja to honor the guardian of wealth. Offerings of rice, coins, and fragrant flowers are made while reciting “Om Yaksha Rajaya Vidmahe Kuberasaya Dhimahi Tanno Kubera Prachodayat,” a mantra that invokes protection of family wealth and stability.

Lakshmi Puja follows as the central ritual. A silver or clay idol of Goddess Lakshmi is bathed in panchamrit, decorated with red cloth, and offered lotus flowers, fruits, and sweets. The mantra “Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah” is chanted to invite prosperity, abundance, and harmony into the home.

The final part is Dhanvantari Puja to seek health and long life. Devotees place an image or idol of Lord Dhanvantari and offer herbs, tulsi leaves, and panchamrit while chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye Amrita Kalasha Hastaya Sarva Bhaya Vinashaya Trailokya Nathaya Sri Mahavishnave Namah,” which means “I bow to Lord Dhanvantari who holds the nectar of immortality and destroys all fear and disease.”

A key tradition is keeping at least one diya lit throughout the night. This unbroken flame symbolizes divine presence, dispels negative energy, and ensures continuous blessings of prosperity, protection, and health for the household.

What to Do and What to buy on Dhanteras 2025

Dhanteras is a day for both sacred rituals and thoughtful purchases that invite prosperity and good fortune. After completing the evening puja, many families plan their shopping during the auspicious muhurat, believing that new acquisitions made at this time attract wealth and positive energy for the year ahead.

Gold and silver remain the most sought after items. Buying jewelry, coins, or small ornaments is considered a powerful way to draw lasting prosperity. Silver utensils and brassware are also favored, symbolizing purity and abundance. Many households choose practical purchases such as new kitchenware or electronics to mark a fresh start while keeping daily life in harmony with tradition. Idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Kubera, or Lord Dhanvantari are popular for home altars, reinforcing the blessings of wealth and health.

Health related items, including Ayurvedic products or fitness equipment, are also welcomed, reflecting the link between Dhanteras and Lord Dhanvantari, the Father of Ayurveda. Acts of charity complete the observance. Offering food, clothing, or donations to those in need is viewed as an essential way to share blessings and increase the spiritual merit of the day, ensuring that prosperity is balanced with compassion and goodwill.

National Ayurveda Day on Dhanteras

National Ayurveda Day is celebrated on Dhanteras to honor the principle that true wealth is lasting health. This observance highlights the ancient Indian understanding that physical vitality and mental balance form the real foundation of prosperity. By focusing on preventive care and natural healing, the day reminds people that material riches mean little without well-being.

The festival pays tribute to Lord Dhanvantari, revered as the Father of Ayurveda and the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu. According to the Samudra Manthan narrative He emerged from the Ocean of Milk carrying the amrit kalash, bringing the science of life and the promise of immunity from disease. His teachings form the core of Ayurveda, a system that integrates diet, herbal medicine, and spiritual discipline to maintain harmony in body and mind.

Observing National Ayurveda Day on Dhanteras encourages the practice of holistic living. Communities organize health camps, yoga sessions, and discussions on Ayurvedic nutrition and daily routines. These activities emphasize balance between mind, body, and environment, offering practical ways to preserve energy and prevent illness. By aligning with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the day reinforces the belief that enduring wealth begins with a healthy, balanced life.

How to Celebrate Dhanteras at Home

Preparation

• Clean and Purify the Home – Sweep, dust, and remove clutter to invite Goddess Lakshmi and positive energy. Discard broken items and ensure the entrance is neat.
• Decorate with Rangoli and Flowers – Create bright rangolis at doorways and use fresh flowers to enhance the welcoming atmosphere.
• Light Diyas – Place rows of oil lamps at doors, windows, and balconies. Keep at least one diya burning overnight for protection and good fortune.

Puja and Rituals

• Perform the Puja – Begin with Ganesh Puja, then proceed with Lakshmi and Kubera worship. Conclude with Dhanvantari puja vidhi, offering herbs and chanting the Dhanvantari mantra for health.
• Offerings – Present fruits, sweets, betel leaves, and coins. Recite simple mantras or prayers seeking prosperity and long life.

Auspicious Actions

• Buy Auspicious Items – Purchase gold, silver coins, utensils, or health related products as symbols of lasting wealth and growth.
• Share Sweets – Distribute traditional sweets among family, neighbors, and friends to spread joy and strengthen bonds.
• Donate and Help Others – Offer food, clothes, or money to those in need, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and attracting positive blessings.

Following this concise plan allows families to honor Dhanteras with devotion, welcome prosperity, and start the Diwali season in a pure and joyful way.

Dhanteras Vrat (Fasting Rituals)

Procedure of Vrat

Devotees begin the Dhanteras vrat with a morning bath and a pledge to observe the fast through the day. The home is cleaned and decorated with rangoli and flowers to invite Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari. Many observe a simple fast, taking only fruits, milk, or water until the evening puja. At the chosen muhurat families perform Ganesh Puja, Lakshmi Kubera Puja, and Dhanvantari puja vidhi, lighting diyas and chanting mantras for health and prosperity. After offering naivedya of sweets and fruits, the fast is broken with prasad once the rituals are complete.

Dhanteras Vrat Katha

The Dhanteras vrat katha tells of a young prince whose destiny was marked by a dark prophecy. At birth the royal astrologers warned King Hima that his son would die from a snake bite on the fourth night after his wedding. The king and queen tried every precaution as the boy grew, but fate seemed fixed. When the time came for his marriage, the princess who became his wife learned of the prophecy and resolved to protect him through devotion and clever planning.

On the predicted night she prepared her chamber with dazzling light and sound. She collected her gold and silver ornaments and arranged them in brilliant heaps at the entrance of the room. Lamps of ghee and oil were lit in every corner until the entire chamber glowed like a field of stars. She placed sweet offerings for the deities and recited prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari, invoking their blessings for the health and life of her husband. Determined to keep him safe and awake, she told stories, sang devotional songs, and clapped softly so that he would not drift into sleep.

As midnight approached Yama, the god of death, arrived in the form of a serpent to claim the prince’s life. When he reached the doorway, the blinding brilliance of the lamps and the glittering ornaments caught his eyes. The soft music of the princess’s songs reached him, filling the air with devotion and light. The radiance and the sacred atmosphere overwhelmed him. Instead of entering the room Yama quietly sat on the heap of jewels, mesmerized by the shimmering glow and the chants of the prayers.

Hours passed while Yama listened to the hymns and watched the unwavering light of the lamps. When the night ended and dawn spread across the sky, he rose and departed without harming the prince. The young man awoke unharmed, and the prophecy of death was defeated through devotion, vigilance, and the power of divine light.

This katha explains the custom of Yama Deep Daan Dhanteras, where families light rows of diyas and keep at least one lamp burning through the night. It teaches that sincere prayer, unwavering faith, and the radiance of sacred light can protect loved ones and invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari for health, wealth, and long life.

Tips and Do’s and Don’ts for Dhanteras

Lighting Diyas

Place the main diya at the entrance of the home facing south to honor Yama and protect the household. Light additional lamps near the altar and along windowsills to invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari. Keep at least one diya burning through the night as a symbol of unbroken prosperity and protection.

Best Items to Purchase

Dhanteras is ideal for buying gold, silver coins, and new utensils, all regarded as symbols of growth and good fortune. Many also choose to buy health related products, electronics, or sacred items like idols of Lakshmi, Kubera, or Lord Dhanvantari. These purchases are considered powerful Dhanteras remedies for wealth and prosperity and are believed to attract lasting abundance.

Items to Avoid

Skip buying iron, steel tools, or sharp objects such as knives and scissors on this day, as these are viewed as inauspicious and believed to disrupt positive energy. Avoid lending money or making major financial loans, since this is thought to send wealth out of the home rather than drawing it in. Following these simple do’s and don’ts ensures that the celebration of Dhanteras brings health, protection, and steady prosperity.

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Conclusion

Dhanteras captures an integrated vision of worldly wealth and inner well-being. Its rituals celebrate material prosperity through Lakshmi and Kubera, while simultaneously honoring health and longevity through Lord Dhanvantari and the tradition of Ayurveda. The festival reinforces the idea that true abundance lies in harmony among body, mind, spirit, and surroundings.

As dusk falls, homes gleam with light, altars brim with offerings, and hearts open in devotion. Lighting diyas, performing Lakshmi Kubera and Dhanvantari pujas, and making auspicious purchases become expressions of hope and gratitude. The ancient legends and rituals rooted in Dhanteras remind us that protection, renewal, and divine blessing are woven into every action of that sacred evening.

May this Dhanteras grace your life with shining prosperity, strong health, and unwavering peace. May your home overflow with blessings and your heart remain open to the light that guides us all.