Dhanteras 2024: A Celebration of Wealth, Health, and Happiness

Dhanteras is a significant day that kicks off the Diwali celebrations. It is all about welcoming wealth, prosperity, and good health into our lives. The term "Dhanteras" comes from two Sanskrit words: "Dhan," meaning wealth, and "Teras," which refers to the 13th day. It is celebrated on the 13th day of the lunar month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. In 2024, Dhanteras will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29.

This guide explains the meaning of Dhanteras, its traditions, and why it’s a special part of Diwali, making it a great resource for kids eager to learn about the festival.

What is Dhanteras?

Dhanteras is the first of the five days of Diwali. On this day, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and medicine. It’s a day to welcome both prosperity and good health into our homes.

Why Do People Celebrate Dhanteras?

• Wealth and Prosperity: Buying gold, silver, or new items on Dhanteras is believed to bring good fortune into the home.
• Health and Well-being: It’s also a day to pray for good health and a long life.
• Beginning Diwali: Dhanteras marks the start of the Diwali festivities, with people decorating their homes and preparing for the celebrations.

The Story Behind Dhanteras

Dhanteras is linked to the god Lord Dhanvantari, who is associated with health and Ayurveda. According to ancient mythology, Lord Dhanvantari appeared during the churning of the ocean by gods and demons, carrying a pot of nectar that granted immortality. This happened on the 13th day of the Kartik month, which is why people celebrate Dhanteras and pray for good health.

Another popular story is about King Hima’s son, whose life was saved from the god of death, Yama, when his wife placed gold and silver around him and lit oil lamps. This is why people buy gold and light lamps on Dhanteras to protect themselves from bad luck.

When is Dhanteras Celebrated?

Dhanteras is observed on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of the Kartik month. In 2024, it falls on Tuesday, October 29.

How Do People Celebrate Dhanteras?

• Buying Gold, Silver, and New Items: One of the key traditions is purchasing new items, especially gold and silver, which are believed to bring prosperity.
• Lighting Diyas: Families light oil lamps (diyas) outside their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and ward off negativity.
• Lakshmi and Dhanvantari Puja: Families offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and to Lord Dhanvantari for health.
• Cleaning and Decorating: Homes are cleaned and beautifully decorated with rangoli and lights to invite Goddess Lakshmi.
• Making Sweets: Traditional sweets like laddoos and kheer are prepared and enjoyed with loved ones.

Fun Activities for Kids on Dhanteras

• Helping with Cleaning: Kids can assist in cleaning the house to prepare for the festival.
• Creating Rangoli: Drawing colorful patterns at the entrance is a fun activity.
• Decorating the House: Hanging lights and making festive decorations can be a creative way to celebrate.
• Joining the Puja: Kids can participate by offering flowers or lighting diyas during the family prayers.
• Making Sweets: With an adult’s help, children can prepare simple sweets like laddoos.

Why Do People Buy Gold and Silver on Dhanteras?

Purchasing gold or silver is believed to bring good fortune and attract wealth. These metals symbolize prosperity and are thought to protect against bad luck.

Dhanteras Safety Tips

• Be Careful with Diyas: Ensure oil lamps are placed away from flammable objects and never leave them unattended.
• Use Safe Decorations: Opt for certified electrical decorations and avoid overloading sockets.
• Be Cautious While Shopping: In crowded places, especially when buying valuable items, it’s important to stay safe.
• Clean Safely: Ask for adult assistance when handling heavy or sharp objects during cleaning.

The Connection Between Dhanteras and Diwali

Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali preparations, leading into a five-day celebration:

• Choti Diwali (Day 2): Families light more diyas and decorate their homes.
• Diwali (Day 3): The main celebration with Lakshmi Puja, fireworks, and family gatherings.
• Govardhan Puja (Day 4): Honoring nature and animals.
• Bhai Dooj (Day 5): A celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters.

Conclusion

Dhanteras sets the stage for the grand Diwali festival by inviting health, wealth, and happiness into people’s lives. Through traditions like buying gold, lighting diyas, and performing puja, families come together to celebrate the start of this joyful festival.