The Significance of Dhanteras Puja: Embracing Prosperity and Abundance

Dhanteras, the inaugural day of the five-day Diwali festival, is a momentous occasion deeply rooted in Hindu culture. The very name “Dhanteras” encapsulates its essence, with “Dhan” signifying wealth and “Teras” alluding to the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu calendar. This day carries immense significance, as it involves the veneration of Lord Yama, the god of death, with the purpose of seeking prosperity and well-being. People commemorate this auspicious day by acquiring gold, silver, jewelry, and utensils, believing it to usher in good fortune. During the propitious “Shubh Muhurat,” devotees partake in a Puja that entails worshipping seven different cereals, including wheat, urad, moong, gram, barley, and masoor. The goddess Maa Bhagwati is adored with golden flowers, and sweets are offered as “naivedya.”

Performing the Dhanteras Puja

Initiating the Dhanteras Puja requires certain preparations. You will need a clay or atta-made Deepak with four wicks, ghee, a matchstick, a shell with a single hole, water, flowers, roli (vermilion), chawal (rice grains), money, an aasan (a small mat), kheel (puffed rice), and batasha (a type of sweet). The Puja commences after the observation of the stars. Place the four-wick Deepak on a pata (plate), position the shell atop the Deepak, and kindle the diya. This ritual is known as “Yamadeep” as it is believed to appease Yamraj (the god of death) and one’s ancestors. Following this, sprinkle water around the Deepak and conduct the Puja using roli, chawal, and money. Some devotees conclude the Puja by presenting four suhali (a type of sweet) and small pethas or kheel and batasha to God as a symbol of a successful completion.

Significance and Procedure of Dhanteras Puja

The Dhanteras Puja holds profound significance in one’s life. People purchase gold, utensils, and silver items with the intention of welcoming Goddess Laxmi into their homes. This marks the commencement of shopping for Diwali essentials such as crackers, diyas (earthen lamps), idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi, and traditional toys (khilonas). Interestingly, if a girl is born on Dhanteras, she is regarded as the embodiment of Goddess Laxmi within the household. When she gets married and departs for her husband’s home, she leaves a footprint behind to ensure that Goddess Laxmi continues to bless the house.

Dhanteras Dates in 2023 and 2024

In 2023, Dhanteras falls on 10th November 2023, which is a Friday.

In 2024, Dhanteras will be observed on 29th October 2024, a Tuesday.

Benefits of Dhanteras Puja

The Dhanteras Puja offers numerous benefits, including the potential for wealth accumulation, overcoming poverty, and leading a life filled with prosperity and happiness.

Mantra for Dhanteras Puja

Reciting the following mantra 108 times during Dhanteras Puja is considered auspicious:

“Om Mahalakshmyai Cha Vidmahe Vishnu Patnyai Cha Dheemahi Tanno Lakshmi Prachodayat”

This mantra invokes the blessings of Goddess Laxmi, the bestower of wealth and prosperity.