Many stories prevail as to why Dhanteras is celebrated, understand the reason for celebration & it’s significance by reading below.
One of the biggest Hindu festivals – Diwali – is kick started with the celebration of Dhanteras. This day falls on trayodashi, i.e. the thirteenth day of Karthika Masa. In Sanskrit, Dhan means wealth and teras means thirteenth. This day is also known as the festival of wealth. On this auspicious day, Lord Kubera (Wealth), Lord Yamraj (Death), Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari are worshiped.
Many stories prevail as to why Dhanteras is celebrated. A story in the Hindu mythology says that Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, was born on this day due to Samudra Manthan. Lord Dhanvantari is also the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Some legends say that Goddess Lakshmi was born this day from Samudra Manthan.
Another legendary concept that is followed this day is Yamadeepdan. On this day, a ‘deep dan’ is given to Lord Yamraj. This is done to keep death away from the house. A diya is lit at the entrance of the house facing south. This keeps any death and evil away from the family.
People buy gold and silver ornaments or jewellery on this day. It is known to be auspicious to by gold and light oil lamps on Dhanteras. Some people also buy utensils and perform puja, which is said to bring good luck and prosperity in the upcoming year. Some Hindus also start new businesses on this day as it marks to be very auspicious. To seek blessings from Lord Dhanvantari for good health, a Kalash is worshipped.