India is a country where every festival carries deep meaning, and one of the most celebrated occasions is Dhanteras. It marks the beginning of Diwali, the festival of lights, and is considered an auspicious day for wealth, prosperity, and good health. Dhanteras, also called Dhantrayodashi, falls on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartika, usually in October or November.

The name itself explains the importance of the day: “Dhan” means wealth and “Teras” means the thirteenth day. On this day, families across India buy gold, silver, utensils, or other valuable items, believing it will invite prosperity and blessings. However, the meaning of Dhanteras is far beyond shopping—it is rooted in mythology, spirituality, and health traditions.

Historical and Mythological Reasons Behind Dhanteras

Several legends from Hindu scriptures describe why Dhanteras is celebrated.

1. Lord Dhanvantari – God of Ayurveda

According to Hindu mythology, during the great Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean), many treasures emerged. Among them was Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician, who appeared carrying a pot of Amrit (nectar of immortality) and sacred texts of Ayurveda. This event took place on the day of Dhanteras.

Because of this, Lord Dhanvantari is worshipped on this day, and prayers are offered for good health and a disease-free life. The celebration reminds people that health is the greatest wealth.

2. Legend of King Hima’s Son

Another story speaks of King Hima’s young son, who was fated to die from a snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. His clever wife saved him by lighting many lamps and placing gold and silver ornaments at the entrance of their chamber. She kept her husband awake through the night with stories and songs. When Yama, the God of Death, came as a serpent, he was blinded by the brilliance of the lamps and jewelry. Unable to enter, he left, and the prince’s life was spared.

This legend explains the tradition of lighting lamps and buying valuables on Dhanteras, symbolizing protection, light, and prosperity.

Spiritual and Cultural Importance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras is not only about wealth; it holds deeper meaning in Indian culture.

1. Welcoming Goddess Lakshmi – On Dhanteras, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune, believing she blesses families with prosperity.
2. Good Health – Since it is also dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the day emphasizes the importance of health and Ayurveda.
3. Positive Energy – Lighting diyas (oil lamps) on this day is believed to remove negativity and bring positive energy into homes.
4. Beginning of Diwali – Dhanteras sets the stage for Diwali, as families start decorating, cleaning, and preparing for the main festival.

How Dhanteras is Celebrated in India

Dhanteras celebrations vary across regions, but the spirit remains the same everywhere.

• Buying Gold, Silver, and Utensils – People buy precious metals or household items as symbols of good luck.
• Lakshmi Puja and Dhanvantari Puja – In the evening, families perform special pujas to seek blessings for wealth and health.
• Lighting Diyas – Rows of lamps are lit outside homes to keep away negative forces and invite prosperity.
• Rangoli and Decorations – Houses are decorated with colorful rangoli designs and flowers to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
• Business Worship – Many traders and business owners perform puja in their shops, praying for successful ventures.

Modern-Day Relevance of Dhanteras

In today’s fast-paced world, Dhanteras is still celebrated with the same excitement. While earlier generations focused on gold and silver, today people also invest in electronics, property, and vehicles. Online shopping platforms and jewelry stores see record sales during this time.

But beyond material wealth, Dhanteras teaches an important lesson: prosperity is meaningful only when accompanied by good health and happiness. It encourages people to embrace both spiritual well-being and financial growth.

Conclusion

Dhanteras is celebrated in India to honor wealth, health, and positivity. Rooted in the legends of Lord Dhanvantari and King Hima’s son, the festival symbolizes the power of light over darkness and life over death. By lighting diyas, buying valuables, and worshipping deities, people not only preserve traditions but also invite good fortune into their lives.

In essence, Dhanteras reminds us that while wealth is important, true prosperity lies in health, peace, and harmony. This is why the festival continues to be one of the most cherished celebrations across India.