Dhanteras

Dhanteras

Dhanteras or Dhanavantri marks the commencement of Diwali celebrations. The name suggests Dhan teras i.e. Dhan. It is associated with worshipping goddess Laxmi, who is goddess of wealth and prosperity. People shop for silver, gold, brass and copper on the eve of dhanteras.

On this festival people decorate their home and official premises, to welcome and celebrate the blessing of goddess Laxmi, also paint little footprints of goddess from entrance to every corner of the house or office in red color and light earthen lamps.

People decorate their house and workplace with rangoli and flowers followed by row of colored bulbs and earthen lamps also perform pujan and worship god Ganesha and goddess Laxmi, which results in bright and color full pious atmosphere.

In many parts of India people worship cattle’s and especially cows as they are considered to be living form of goddess Laxmi. On dhanteras eve markets are flooded with people shopping for different gift, decoration and pujan items. Ornaments, idols and coins of god Ganesha and goddess Laxmi are some most popular item purchased. Corporate gifts include sliver and gold coins of god Ganesha and goddess Laxmi, stationary etc.

Homes and offices are decorated with rangoli and earthen lamps followed by pujan in the evening, also prepration of sweets starts from morning it self in which Boondi laddu, rice kheer, and sivayi are popular.

Shopping is not restricted to buying only coins and ornaments, people shop for kitchen ware, furniture, clothes even some prefer to purchase new vehicle on this auspicious day.
Pujan commences after the sunset followed by aarti of god and goddess. People meet their friends and relatives and exchange gifts and sweets, which marks beginning of happiness and prosperity for everybody.