Dhanteras 2023: Significance, Date, and Traditions
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanvantari Trayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in India and by Hindus around the world. This auspicious day falls on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually occurs in October or November. In 2023, Dhanteras is set to be observed on October 23rd.
Significance of Dhanteras:
Dhanteras holds immense significance as it is believed to bring prosperity and good luck to individuals and businesses. The word ‘Dhanteras’ is derived from the combination of two words – ‘Dhan’, meaning wealth, and ‘Teras’, referring to the thirteenth day. It is widely believed that purchasing gold, silver, or utensils on this day brings wealth and happiness to the household.
Date and Timing of Dhanteras 2023:
Dhanteras falls on the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik according to the Hindu calendar. In 2023, Dhanteras is scheduled to be observed on October 23rd. The timings for purchasing items and performing rituals on this day are ideally during the Dhanteras Puja Muhurat, which is considered highly auspicious.
Traditions and Celebrations:
Dhanteras is celebrated with various traditions and customs that are believed to bring prosperity and happiness. Here are some common customs observed on Dhanteras:
1. Cleaning and Decoration: To welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, people clean their homes and decorate them with Rangoli patterns, flowers, and lights.
2. Shopping for Gold and Utensils: It is a common belief that buying gold, silver, or utensils on Dhanteras brings good fortune. People throng markets to make purchases on this day.
3. Lighting Lamps: Lighting oil lamps or diyas is a major ritual during Dhanteras to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and to attract blessings from deities.
4. Dhanteras Puja: In the evening, families gather to perform the Dhanteras Puja, which involves offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, the treasurer of the Gods.
5. Auspicious Mantras: Chanting sacred mantras and hymns dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi is believed to bring blessings and prosperity into the household.
6. Donation and Charity: It is considered auspicious to donate to the poor and needy on Dhanteras to seek blessings and spread happiness in the community.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q1. What is the significance of buying gold and silver on Dhanteras?
A1. Buying gold or silver on Dhanteras is believed to bring prosperity and wealth into the household as it is considered auspicious.
Q2. Can Dhanteras be celebrated without buying new items?
A2. Yes, Dhanteras can be celebrated by cleaning and decorating the house, lighting lamps, and performing prayers even without purchasing new items.
Q3. Is it necessary to perform the Dhanteras Puja in the evening?
A3. While performing the Dhanteras Puja in the evening is considered more auspicious, it can be done at any time during the day.
Q4. Are there any specific dishes prepared on Dhanteras?
A4. People often prepare sweet dishes like Halwa and Kheer on Dhanteras as offerings to the deities.
Q5. Can non-Hindus participate in Dhanteras celebrations?
A5. Yes, Dhanteras is a festival that welcomes people of all faiths to participate in the celebrations and seek blessings for prosperity.
Celebrating Dhanteras with devotion and following these traditions is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and success into the lives of people. It is a time for families to come together, exchange good wishes, and seek blessings from the divine for a fulfilling and prosperous life ahead.
