As the festival of Diwali draws near, the celebration begins with Dhanteras, a day filled with light, hope, and devotion. Markets glow with diyas and gold ornaments, homes are decorated, and families prepare for auspicious rituals. Yet, behind these vibrant traditions lies a deeper story — the mythological significance of Dhanteras, rooted in ancient legends that connect this day to divine health, wealth, and spiritual well-being.
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, falls on the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. The word Dhan means wealth, and Teras means the thirteenth day. But Dhanteras represents much more than material prosperity — it is about divine abundance, protection, and healing.
The Story of Lord Dhanvantari — The Birth of Ayurveda
The most celebrated legend related to Dhanteras comes from the Samudra Manthan, or churning of the cosmic ocean. This event is described in Hindu scriptures such as the Puranas.
During this great churning, the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) worked together to extract the nectar of immortality, known as Amrit, from the ocean of milk. As various divine treasures appeared, one of the final beings to emerge was Lord Dhanvantari, the celestial physician and the father of Ayurveda.
He appeared carrying a pot of Amrit in one hand and sacred herbs in the other. His arrival symbolized the dawn of divine healing and the importance of health as the true form of wealth. This moment is celebrated as Dhanteras, marking the beginning of Diwali.
Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Dhanvantari on this day brings protection from diseases and promotes good health. Temples and homes dedicated to Ayurveda often hold special Dhanvantari Puja to honor this ancient tradition. The story reminds us that health is the greatest wealth, a belief that remains deeply relevant even today.
The Legend of Yamadeepdaan — When Light Conquered Death
Another remarkable tale associated with Dhanteras is the Yamadeepdaan story, which highlights the power of devotion and light.
According to legend, King Hima is sixteen-year-old son was fated to die from a snake bite on the fourth day after his marriage. Distraught but determined, his wife decided to protect him. On that night, she lit hundreds of oil lamps and arranged her gold ornaments and coins near the doorway. She then sat by her husband, narrating stories and singing songs to keep him awake through the night.
When Lord Yama, the god of death, arrived in the form of a serpent, he was mesmerized by the brilliance of the lamps and the glow of the gold. Unable to enter the chamber, Yama quietly returned, sparing the young prince’s life.
This is why, every year on Dhanteras evening, people light diyas (lamps) at the entrance of their homes. This ritual, known as Yamadeepdaan, is believed to ward off evil, misfortune, and untimely death.
Symbolically, it represents how light, faith, and devotion can overcome darkness and fear — a timeless message that continues to define the spirit of Dhanteras.
Goddess Lakshmi and Dhanteras — The Arrival of Prosperity
Dhanteras also holds a special connection with Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. Mythology tells us that during the Samudra Manthan, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean on the same day as Lord Dhanvantari.
This is why Dhanteras is also considered the day to welcome Lakshmi into one’s home. Devotees clean and decorate their houses, light diyas, and draw rangolis at the entrance to attract her blessings.
Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi on Dhanteras is believed to invite prosperity, success, and abundance. People also pray to Lord Kuber, the god of treasures, for financial stability and growth. The idea is not just about gaining wealth but about using it wisely and sharing it generously.
Traditionally, families buy gold, silver, or utensils on this day, as it is considered highly auspicious. The shine of metal represents purity and prosperity. Even in modern times, this practice continues, with people investing in digital gold or symbolic purchases to honor the belief that Lakshmi’s blessings enter homes through acts of faith and gratitude.
Dhanteras and Its Connection to the Five Days of Diwali
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival, followed by Chhoti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi), Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Each day carries spiritual meaning, but Dhanteras sets the foundation for the days to come.
The significance of Dhanteras lies in preparing for both physical and spiritual abundance. It encourages cleanliness, renewal, and devotion before the arrival of Diwali — the festival of lights. By lighting lamps and offering prayers on this day, devotees purify their surroundings and hearts, inviting divine energy and prosperity.
The Tradition of Buying Gold and Silver on Dhanteras
The custom of purchasing gold, silver, or brass utensils on Dhanteras is one of the most recognizable traditions in India. The belief is that buying something new on this day brings luck, prosperity, and divine blessings.
The roots of this practice come from the legend of Goddess Lakshmi’s appearance from the ocean, adorned with gold ornaments. Bringing home gold or silver symbolizes inviting her blessings and positive energy.
While the form of purchase has evolved — from jewelry and coins to digital investments — the sentiment remains unchanged. People also buy household items or donate essentials to the needy, extending the idea of Dhan (wealth) beyond material gain.
This custom reflects a deeper truth — that true wealth lies in generosity and gratitude, not just possession.
The Deeper Meaning of Dhanteras: Wealth Beyond Gold
Beyond the rituals and legends, Dhanteras holds a timeless message — that wealth is meaningful only when accompanied by good health, faith, and kindness.
The story of Lord Dhanvantari teaches the value of well-being and the importance of balance in life.
The Yamadeepdaan legend highlights how light and devotion can conquer destiny.
The appearance of Goddess Lakshmi reminds us that prosperity follows purity of heart and righteous living.
Together, these stories form the spiritual essence of Dhanteras — a day to celebrate life, honor divine energy, and nurture gratitude.
When people ask why Dhanteras is celebrated, the answer lies not only in mythology but in everyday meaning — it is a reminder that light, health, and compassion are the truest forms of wealth.
Regional Celebrations Across India
Across India, Dhanteras 2025 will be celebrated with diverse customs, each adding its unique cultural flavor.
- In North India, people light diyas, draw rangolis, and perform Lakshmi and Kuber puja in the evening.
- In Gujarat, Dhanteras also marks the start of the new financial year, and business owners perform Chopda Pujan to open new account books with the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
- In South India, devotees primarily worship Lord Dhanvantari and pray for good health and longevity.
- In Maharashtra and Goa, families perform the Yamadeepdaan ritual and offer food or sweets to express gratitude for protection and prosperity.
Despite regional differences, the spirit of Dhanteras remains universal — celebrating the triumph of light, the gift of health, and the blessings of abundance.
How to Celebrate Dhanteras 2025 with Purpose
As Dhanteras 2025 approaches, the focus should be on celebrating it meaningfully. Here are a few simple ways to honor the day’s true significance:
- Cleanse your home and surroundings, symbolizing removal of negativity.
- Light diyas in the evening to invite divine energy and protect your household.
- Offer prayers to Lord Dhanvantari for good health and to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.
- Buy something new, even a small item, to mark new beginnings.
- Share your blessings with others by donating food, clothes, or money to those in need.
When celebrated with faith and sincerity, Dhanteras becomes more than a tradition — it transforms into a reminder to appreciate the abundance already present in our lives.
The Eternal Message of Dhanteras
Every legend connected with Dhanteras — from Lord Dhanvantari’s emergence with the Amrit, to the Yamadeepdaan tale of devotion, to Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings of fortune — carries a shared message:
Also Read :
True Dhan (wealth) is not just in gold or silver, but in good health, peace, and the light that we bring into our world.
As you light diyas this Dhanteras, may each flame brighten your life with well-being and happiness. Let the stories of Dhanteras 2025 inspire you to cherish every blessing — because in the end, health and harmony are the greatest treasures of all.
Happy Dhanteras 2025 to you and your loved ones!