Post by : Rameen Ariff

Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is the first day of the five-day Diwali festival and holds great religious, cultural, and economic significance. It is celebrated with prayers, buying gold and silver, lighting diyas, and performing rituals to invite wealth, prosperity, and well-being into homes.

1. History of Dhanteras

The word Dhanteras comes from two Sanskrit words: ‘Dhan’ meaning wealth and ‘Teras’ meaning the 13th day of the lunar fortnight. It falls on the 13th day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin, according to the Hindu calendar.

Dhanteras is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology:

1. Lord Dhanvantari and the Origin of Ayurveda:- According to legend, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Lord Dhanvantari, the god of medicine and Ayurveda, appeared holding a pot of Amrit (elixir of immortality). To honor him, people worship Dhanvantari on Dhanteras, seeking good health and long life.

2. King Hima and the 16-Year-Old Daughter Story
   Another story is about King Hima and his 16-year-old daughter. It is said that on the day of Dhanteras, a wealthy merchant gave gold and silver to protect the princess from death by a snake. This legend inspires the practice of buying gold, silver, or utensils on Dhanteras for protection and prosperity.

2. Significance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras is not only about material wealth but also health, prosperity, and well-being:

• Spiritual Significance: Worshipping Lord Dhanvantari brings health, longevity, and divine blessings.

• Economic Significance: Buying gold, silver, utensils, and precious items on this day is considered auspicious and is believed to attract wealth.

• Cultural Significance: The festival strengthens family and community bonds and encourages generosity.

3. Traditional Dhanteras Rituals

a. Cleaning and Decorating Homes
People clean their homes thoroughly to welcome wealth and positive energy. Rangoli designs and flowers are used to decorate doorsteps.

b. Buying Precious Metals
Purchasing gold, silver, or new utensils is considered highly auspicious. It symbolizes prosperity and financial security.

c. Lighting Diyas
Lighting oil lamps at entrances and windows is believed to ward off evil spirits and invite Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari.

d. Dhanvantari Puja
Devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari for good health, performing rituals with flowers, incense, and prayers. Some also offer sweets and food to the deities.

e. Charity and Helping Others
Giving donations to the needy is considered highly auspicious on Dhanteras and is believed to bring blessings and wealth.

4. How Dhanteras is Celebrated Across Asia

Although Dhanteras originated in India, it is celebrated in various Asian countries with Indian communities, each adding local customs:

a. India
In India, Dhanteras is marked by:

• Cleaning homes and offices.

• Buying gold, silver, utensils, or electronics.

• Lighting diyas and performing Dhanvantari Puja in the evening.

• Starting Diwali shopping festivals and fairs.

b. Nepal
In Nepal, people perform similar rituals, emphasizing health and wealth. The day is integrated into the Tihar festival, with prayers and lights.

c. Sri Lanka
Tamil Hindu communities celebrate Dhanteras by cleaning homes, worshipping deities, and preparing special sweets.

d. Malaysia and Singapore
Indian diaspora communities celebrate Dhanteras by performing Lakshmi and Dhanvantari puja, decorating homes, and starting festive shopping.

e. Other Countries
In countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Fiji, and Mauritius, Indian communities observe Dhanteras by:

• Buying gold or silver items.

• Performing small rituals at home.

• Sharing sweets and gifts with neighbors and friends.

5. Modern Dhanteras Trends

• Digital Shopping: Many people now buy gold, silver, and gifts online.

• Eco-Friendly Celebrations: Using LED diyas, organic rangoli, and sustainable decor.

• Corporate Events and Promotions: Companies offer festive discounts and cultural events to mark Dhanteras.

• Health Awareness: Since Dhanteras is linked to health via Lord Dhanvantari, modern celebrations often include health checks and wellness practices.

6. Cultural Impact of Dhanteras

Dhanteras plays an important role in Indian and Asian culture:

• Promotes generosity and sharing within families and communities.

• Encourages the preservation of traditions, such as buying gold and performing rituals.

• Strengthens social bonds and community harmony.

• Inspires arts and crafts, including rangoli, lamp decorations, and festive food preparation.

Dhanteras is much more than the start of Diwali; it is a festival that combines spiritual devotion, prosperity, and cultural heritage. From worshipping Lord Dhanvantari to buying gold and silver, lighting diyas, and spreading joy, Dhanteras brings families and communities together across Asia. Whether in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, or Singapore, the festival continues to symbolize health, wealth, and well-being, marking an auspicious beginning to the Festival of Lights.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only. Newsible Asia strives to provide accurate and up-to-date content, but readers are advised to verify details independently. The views expressed are for general knowledge and cultural understanding.

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