Celebrating Dhanteras: Rituals for Prosperity and Wealth

Understanding Dhanteras

In Hindu culture, Dhanteras is a festival that embodies joy, wealth, and prosperity, marking the start of the five-day Diwali celebrations. Devotees believe that honoring Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kubera during this time is particularly meaningful. Engaging in rituals with sincerity and adhering to specific customs is thought to invite happiness and financial stability into homes. Ujjain-based astrologer Anand Bhardwaj shares insights on when Dhanteras will be observed this year and the auspicious practices associated with it.

According to the Vedic calendar, the *Kartik Krishna Trayodashi* Tithi will commence at 10:30 AM on November 6 and end at 10:47 AM on November 7. Based on the *Udayatithi* (the *tithi* at sunrise), *Kartik Krishna Trayodashi* is observed on Saturday, November 7, but Dhan Trayodashi, or Dhanteras, will be celebrated on Friday, November 6. This day is particularly significant as it is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

Lighting 13 Lamps After Sunset
Traditionally, it is recommended to light 13 lamps after sunset on Dhanteras and place 13 *kaudis* (cowrie shells) nearby. It is believed that positioning these *kaudis* in a corner of the home at midnight can help alleviate financial issues and attract the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Additionally, to overcome monetary challenges, daily worship of Goddess Lakshmi from Dhanteras through Diwali is encouraged. Offering a pair of cloves (*laung*) to the Goddess during this time is considered particularly auspicious for invoking happiness and wealth.

Sprinkling Water with a Conch Shell
If you have been facing delays or obstacles in your endeavors, certain remedies can be performed on Dhanteras. It is deemed auspicious to donate white items such as sugar, *batashe* (sugar drops), *kheer* (rice pudding), and rice on this day, as it is believed to help remove life’s hindrances. Furthermore, before and after the Dhanteras *puja* (worship), filling a *dakshinavarti* (right-spiraling) conch shell with water and sprinkling it around your home is thought to invite Goddess Lakshmi, ensuring that joy and prosperity flourish within the household.

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