Dhanteras 2025 – The Festival of Wealth, Prosperity, and Good Fortune
The arrival of Dhanteras fills every Indian heart with anticipation, faith, and joy. The festival, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration, which continues with Naraka Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj.
On this day, homes shimmer with earthen diyas, streets glow with festive lights, and markets bustle with shoppers buying gold, silver, and new utensils- all believed to invite Maa Lakshmi’s divine grace and Lord Dhanvantari’s blessings for wealth and health.
Dhanteras is not merely about material prosperity; it’s about embracing the spirit of abundance, celebrating health as true wealth, and preparing to welcome light over darkness.
In 2025, Dhanteras will be observed on Monday, 20 October, with Lakshmi Puja conducted during the Pradosh Kaal– a time considered most auspicious for worship.
Meaning and Significance of Dhanteras
The word “Dhanteras” is derived from two Sanskrit words- Dhan (wealth) and Teras (the thirteenth day). It falls on the thirteenth lunar day (Trayodashi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Kartik.
According to Hindu scriptures, wealth is not confined to gold or money alone — it also signifies health, knowledge, spiritual progress, and happiness. Hence, on Dhanteras, people worship both Goddess Lakshmi, who bestows material wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, who grants good health and longevity.
It is also believed that performing Lakshmi Puja, lighting diyas, and buying new items on this day bring divine energy and success throughout the year.
Dhanteras 2025: Date and Auspicious Timings
- Date: Saturday, 18 October 2025
- Significance: Marks the first day of Diwali, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari for wealth and health.
- Lakshmi Puja Muhurat: 7:16 PM – 8:20 PM (New Delhi)
- Pradosh Kaal (Auspicious Puja Time): 5:48 PM – 8:20 PM
The Pradosh Kaal, which starts after sunset and lasts about two hours, is the best time for performing the Dhanteras Puja and lighting diyas.
Legends and Mythological Stories of Dhanteras
1. The Legend of Lord Dhanvantari- The Divine Healer
The most ancient legend associated with Dhanteras comes from the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean). During the great churning performed by gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) in search of Amrit (the nectar of immortality), many divine treasures emerged from the ocean.
On the thirteenth day, Lord Dhanvantari, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, appeared holding a Kalash (pot) filled with nectar and the scriptures of Ayurveda. Hence, this day is celebrated as Dhanvantari Jayanti– the birth anniversary of the God of Medicine and Health.
Worshipping Lord Dhanvantari on this day ensures protection from diseases, blessings of longevity, and physical and mental well-being.
2. The Story of King Hima’s Son and Yama’s Blessing
Another popular legend narrates the story of King Hima’s sixteen-year-old son, who was destined to die by a snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. His wise and devoted wife discovered the prophecy and decided to outwit death.
On that fateful night, she lit countless diyas all around the palace, piled her gold and silver ornaments at the entrance, and sang melodious songs to keep her husband awake.
When Yama, the god of death, arrived in the form of a serpent, the brilliance of diyas and ornaments dazzled his eyes. Mesmerized by the radiance and devotion, Yama returned without harming the prince.
Thus, Dhanteras became a festival of light triumphing over darkness and devotion overpowering fate. Lighting lamps on Dhanteras is believed to keep negative energies and untimely death away.
3. The Legend of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber
According to another belief, on Dhanteras, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during Samudra Manthan, holding a lotus and a pot of gold. On the same day, Lord Kuber, the treasurer of heaven, was also worshipped by the Devas.
Therefore, on this day, devotees worship both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber to attract both Dhan (wealth) and Sampatti (prosperity).
Rituals and Puja Vidhi of Dhanteras
1. Morning Preparations
The day begins with an early morning bath followed by cleaning and decorating the home. Women draw rangoli designs at the entrance with rice flour or colored powder and place tiny footprints of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing her divine arrival.
2. Shopping for Auspicious Items
It is considered extremely auspicious to buy new items on Dhanteras- even a small utensil or coin can bring prosperity. Most people purchase gold, silver, brass, or copper items. Business owners open new account books (Chopda Pujan) and start new ventures on this day.
3. The Evening Lakshmi Puja
The main puja is performed during Pradosh Kaal, after sunset. A clean altar is prepared with idols or pictures of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kuber. Offerings include:
- Flowers and incense
- Rice grains and turmeric
- Fruits and sweets (especially kheel and batasha)
- Silver coins and diyas
Lakshmi Aarti and Kuber Mantra are recited, and 13 lamps (Yama Deepam) are lit outside the home- believed to keep the family safe from Yama’s shadow.
4. Lighting of Diyas
Thirteen earthen lamps are placed at the entrance, windows, and corners of the house to drive away evil and invite positive energy. It is said that these lights guide Goddess Lakshmi into the home and illuminate one’s destiny.
What to Buy on Dhanteras 2025
Purchasing specific items on Dhanteras is believed to bring luck and abundance. Here’s what you can consider:
| Category | Items to Buy | Belief/Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Metals | Gold, silver coins, ornaments | Attracts wealth and long-term prosperity |
| Utensils | Brass, copper, or steel items | Symbol of nourishment and purity |
| Household Goods | Appliances, furniture, electronics | Signifies renewal and comfort |
| Religious Items | Diyas, idols of Lakshmi and Ganesha | Brings spiritual blessings |
| Health Items | Ayurvedic herbs or medical tools | Honors Lord Dhanvantari |
| Others | Brooms (Jhadu), clothes, food grains | Associated with fortune and cleanliness |
Avoid: Buying iron, glass items, black-colored goods, or oil on Dhanteras, as they are considered inauspicious.
Regional Traditions and Celebrations Across India
North India
In states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Punjab, Dhanteras marks the start of Diwali festivities. People light diyas, decorate their homes, and perform Lakshmi Puja with grandeur. Goldsmiths, jewelers, and markets witness record sales.
Western India
In Gujarat and Maharashtra, business communities celebrate Chopda Pujan– the worship of new accounting books and ledgers. Traders pray to Goddess Lakshmi for profit and success in business ventures.
South India
In southern states, the day is observed as Dhanvantari Jayanti, honoring the divine physician. Temples conduct special health-related rituals, and people pray for healing and wellness.
Eastern India
In Bengal and Odisha, Dhanteras is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber, with people lighting diyas and decorating doors with Alpana designs made from rice paste.
Dhanteras and Ayurveda- The Health Connection
Since Dhanteras commemorates the birth of Lord Dhanvantari, it is also regarded as Ayurveda Day in India. Ayurvedic practitioners offer prayers to the deity, seeking guidance in healing and medicine.
Many households begin new health routines, buy herbal medicines, or organize medical checkups- honoring the belief that “Health is the greatest wealth.”
Modern Significance of Dhanteras
While rooted in mythology, Dhanteras has evolved into a festival of wellness and wealth management in modern times. People today view it as a day to:
- Start new investments
- Buy gold bonds or property
- Donate to charity
- Reorganize financial goals
It’s a day that beautifully blends spirituality with practicality, reminding us that both material success and inner well-being are essential for a balanced life.
Eco-Friendly Dhanteras Celebrations
With growing environmental consciousness, many people now celebrate Dhanteras in an eco-friendly manner:
- Use earthen diyas instead of plastic lights
- Buy local handmade items to support artisans
- Avoid firecrackers
- Donate food, clothes, or money to underprivileged families
- Reuse decorative materials responsibly
By doing so, we align the celebration with the true essence of purity, kindness, and gratitude.
Conclusion
Dhanteras 2025 is not just the first day of Diwali- it’s the beginning of light, faith, and abundance. It reminds us that true prosperity lies not only in gold and silver but in health, happiness, and harmony.
As diyas illuminate your home this Dhanteras, may they also light up your path toward success, positivity, and divine grace. May Goddess Lakshmi bless you with endless fortune and Lord Dhanvantari grant you everlasting health.
Wishing you and your family a blessed and prosperous Dhanteras 2025!
