Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on 10th November, which falls on a Friday. The auspicious combination of Shukra Pradosh and Dhan Trayodashi makes this day even more significant. Additionally, this day also falls under the Vishkumbh Yoga. The Trayodashi tithi will begin on 10th November at 12:36 pm and will continue until 11th November at 01:58 pm.
The ideal time for performing the Dhanteras puja is during the Pradosh Kaal, which is from 5:46 pm to 8:25 pm. For those with a Taurus ascendant, the auspicious time for the puja is from 6:08 pm to 8:05 pm. The auspicious time for buying utensils is from 5:46 pm to 8:26 pm.
When it comes to shopping on Dhanteras, the best time is from noon to evening. Particularly, the most auspicious time for shopping is from 12:56 pm to 2:06 pm and then from 4:16 pm to 5:26 pm.
It is believed that during the churning of the ocean, Lord Dhanvantari emerged with the pot of nectar on this day. Hence, the tradition of buying utensils on Dhanteras is prevalent. After making a purchase, it is customary to gift the shopkeeper a coin of 1, 2, or 5 rupees, as it is believed to bring prosperity.
On Dhanteras, it is also customary to light a lamp for Yamaraj, the God of Death. Lighting a lamp in his name is said to ward off untimely death. To do this, make an oil lamp with wick and place it facing south at the main entrance of your home. Add mustard oil, black pepper, and cloves to the lamp. Also, donate a lamp for this purpose. Decorate your home with 13 lamps and offer prayers to Lord Kubera before the Goddess Lakshmi.
It is also essential to buy a broom for acquiring wealth. Buying a new broom on Dhanteras and Diwali is an age-old tradition. Purchase a new broom on this day and worship it. While buying it, ensure that the broom has odd numbers like 1, 3, 5, or 7 in the price. This is considered auspicious.
After performing the Lakshmi puja on Diwali night, worship the broom with kumkum and rice and wrap it in a red cloth. Keep it in a clean place and use it from the next day. This practice is believed to remove negative energy from the house and attract the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
In conclusion, Dhanteras is a significant day filled with traditions and rituals that are believed to bring prosperity and happiness. It is essential to follow these customs with faith and devotion to invite good fortune into our lives. Remember, these practices are based on beliefs and should be followed with the guidance of a knowledgeable person.