Dhanteras: the first day of Diwali
Dhanteras, or Dhantrayodashi, opens the five days of Diwali. It falls on the thirteenth lunar day (Trayodashi) of the dark fortnight before Diwali.
What it honours
Legend says Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, rose from the churning of the ocean carrying a pot of amrit on this day, so it is also Dhanvantari Jayanti. Goddess Lakshmi and Kubera, the keeper of wealth, are worshipped in the evening.
When it falls
The puja is done in Pradosh Kaal, the time just after sunset, on the day when Trayodashi is current then. Pradosh depends on your city’s sunset.
How it is kept
- Clean and light the home Homes are cleaned and the first lamps of Diwali are lit at the entrance.
- Lakshmi and Kubera puja An evening puja with lamps, sweets and new coins asks for prosperity in the year ahead.
- Yama Deepam A lamp facing south is lit for Yamaraj, traditionally for the family’s protection.
- A new purchase Buying a metal utensil, silver or gold is a long-standing custom; a small, meaningful purchase is just as traditional.