Dhanteras 2024 will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Deepawali or Diwali 2024 celebration will start from Dhanteras itself and will go till the Bhai Duj celebration. Though in Bihar and Eastern UP, it will go beyound this and will be end with Chhath festival. Discover the significance of Dhanteras, celebrated as the first day of Diwali, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. According to Hindu mythology, this day commemorates the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari from the Samudra Manthan, inviting blessings of wealth and abundance. Marked on the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik, Dhanteras is an auspicious time for purchasing gold, silver, and new household items. Dhanteras 2024 will be celebrated on the 29th October 2024.
Dhanvantari Jayanti
Explore Dhanvantari Jayanti, a day dedicated to health and wellness in Hindu culture. Celebrated alongside Dhanteras, this day honors Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and father of Ayurveda, who appeared with the Amrit (nectar of immortality) during the Samudra Manthan. Observed on the 13th day of Kartik’s Krishna Paksha, it highlights the importance of health, Ayurveda, and traditional healing practices in the Indian calendar.
Introduction to Dhanteras & Dhanvantari Jayanti
Dhanteras and Dhanvantari Jayanti mark the start of India’s festive Diwali celebrations. Celebrated with joy and devotion, these festivals symbolize wealth, health, and prosperity, focusing on the worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi. Their significance is deeply rooted in Indian culture, embodying spiritual and material well-being.
The Origin and Story Behind Dhanteras
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, falls on the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. The term “Dhanteras” originates from “Dhan” (wealth) and “Teras” (thirteenth day). According to ancient legends, it commemorates the appearance of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician, who emerged from the ocean with the pot of nectar (Amrit) during the Samudra Manthan, symbolizing health and longevity.
Religious and Cultural Significance of Dhanteras
Dhanteras holds religious significance as it ushers in the Diwali festivities. Devotees clean and decorate their homes, drawing intricate Rangolis to invite Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth. It is customary to buy gold, silver, or utensils on this day, as this is believed to attract prosperity. Lighting lamps is also an essential ritual, symbolizing the removal of darkness from one’s life.
Celebrating Dhanvantari Jayanti: The Day of Ayurveda
Dhanvantari Jayanti, often celebrated in alignment with Dhanteras, honors Lord Dhanvantari, regarded as the “Father of Ayurveda.” This day promotes the principles of Ayurveda and emphasizes the importance of health in our lives. Temples and households worship Lord Dhanvantari, seeking blessings for good health and well-being.
The Importance of Health and Wealth on Dhanteras
On Dhanteras, people acknowledge the interconnection of health and wealth. Wealth provides the means to live comfortably, while good health ensures one can fully enjoy these blessings. Dhanteras serves as a reminder to take care of our health and attract wealth responsibly.
Traditional Rituals of Dhanteras Celebration
Buying Precious Metals: Purchasing gold, silver, or new utensils on Dhanteras is considered auspicious. Many believe it symbolizes inviting prosperity.
Lighting Diyas: Devotees light diyas around their homes to dispel negativity and darkness, creating an atmosphere of joy and positivity.
Offering Prayers to Dhanvantari and Lakshmi: People pray to Lord Dhanvantari for health and to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, combining the two essential elements for a fulfilling life.
Modern Celebrations and Social Significance
In modern times, Dhanteras is not just about personal prosperity but also includes community welfare activities. Health camps, wellness awareness programs, and Ayurveda consultations are often organized, embodying Lord Dhanvantari’s message of health for all. The day also emphasizes the importance of giving back to society by helping the less fortunate.
Conclusion: Embracing the Spirit of Dhanteras 2024 and Dhanvantari Jayanti
Dhanteras and Dhanvantari Jayanti remind us of the balance between material wealth and spiritual well-being. As we light diyas and offer prayers, we celebrate the abundance of health, prosperity, and happiness. These festivals encourage us to embrace traditions while acknowledging the importance of wellness, kindness, and generosity.