Dhanteras opens the five days of Diwali. The name combines dhan (wealth) and teras (the thirteenth lunar day), and it is observed on Kartik Krishna Trayodashi. Families buy metal, light lamps and worship Lakshmi, Kuber and Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods.
Friday, 6 November 2026. The puja is performed in the evening Pradosh Kaal after sunset, which falls in the first couple of hours after dusk. Exact puja muhurat and the best time to buy depend on your city, so please check a local panchang.
Why Dhanteras Is Celebrated
Dhanvantari's emergence. During the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), Lord Dhanvantari rose from the waters carrying a pot of amrit, the nectar of immortality. He is revered as the divine physician and the source of Ayurveda, which is why Dhanteras is also observed as Dhanvantari Jayanti, and why India marks National Ayurveda Day on this day.
The story of Yama Deepam. A popular folk tale tells of a prince who, according to his horoscope, was fated to die by snakebite four days after his marriage. His young wife kept him awake, covered the doorway with gold and silver ornaments and lit lamps, and sang stories through the night. When Yama arrived in the form of a serpent, he was dazzled by the light and quietly left. This is why many people light a lamp facing south at the doorway on this night, known as Yama Deepam or Yamadeepdaan, to ask for protection from untimely death.
What to Buy on Dhanteras
It is a widely held tradition to buy something new, especially metal, on this day. Common purchases include gold or silver coins and jewellery, brass or copper utensils, a new broom (symbolising removal of poverty and dirt), kitchen items, and in recent years vehicles and electronics. Buying is a gesture of welcoming prosperity, and it does not have to be expensive: even a small steel utensil or a few silver coins is considered auspicious. Spend within your means; the spirit of the day is not extravagance.
Dhanteras Puja Vidhi
- Clean the house and decorate the entrance with rangoli and lamps.
- In the evening, place images of Lakshmi, Ganesha, Kuber and Dhanvantari, along with the newly bought items.
- Light a ghee lamp and offer flowers, roli, akshat, sweets and fruit.
- Chant "Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah" and a Dhanvantari mantra such as "Om Namo Bhagavate Dhanvantaraye Namah".
- Perform aarti.
- Light a lamp at the main door or courtyard facing south for Yama Deepam, and place it outdoors with care.
A Day for Health as Well as Wealth
Because Dhanvantari is part of the story, many families think of health as the first wealth. It is a good day to resolve to look after your well-being, eat well and keep regular check-ups. Continue the festival with Diwali date and puja and the reasons to celebrate Diwali.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to buy gold on Dhanteras?
Many people buy during the auspicious Trayodashi window in the afternoon or evening. Check your local panchang, and remember that quality, price and need matter more than the hour.
Why is a lamp lit facing south on Dhanteras?
South is the direction associated with Yama, and the Yama Deepam lamp is lit to seek protection from untimely death, following the folk story of the prince and his wife.
Is it compulsory to buy gold?
No. Traditions encourage buying any new metal item, a utensil or even a broom. The festival is about welcoming prosperity, not about spending beyond your means.
Read Next
- Diwali Date, Puja Muhurat, Puja Vidhi and Significance
- What Are the Reasons to Celebrate Diwali?
- Why Is Lakshmi Puja Celebrated on Diwali?
Resources and references. HinduTone: Diwali 2026 complete guide | Traditional sources: Samudra Manthan accounts; Yama Deepam folk tradition
Disclaimer. This article is shared for general knowledge and cultural interest. It draws on traditional beliefs, scriptural tradition and published panchang sources, and is not scientific, medical, legal, financial or professional advice. Astrology, Vastu, omens and religious observances are belief-based and offer no guarantee of any outcome. Dates, tithi and muhurat timings differ by city and by panchang, and the figures given here may change or contain errors, so please confirm them with your local panchang or family priest before you act. Fasting and dietary practices must suit your health; consult a doctor first if you are unwell, pregnant, elderly or on medication. Sansthaan and its writers accept no responsibility or liability for any decision, loss or consequence arising from the use of this content.
Sansthaan Team
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