KarmaVaaniFestival · October–November
Dhanteras
Also known as Dhanatrayodashi
The first day of Diwali, honouring Dhanvantari and Lakshmi, when new metal is brought into the home.
Dhanteras falls on the Krishna Trayodashi of Kartika (Ashvina in the Amanta reckoning), two days before Diwali. It honours Dhanvantari, physician of the gods, who rose from the churning of the ocean with the nectar of immortality, and Lakshmi. Families buy new utensils, silver or gold, and light a lamp for Yama facing south.
Why it is kept
It begins the festival of lights with prayers for health and wealth.
Step by step
How to observe it
Bring something new into the home
A new metal utensil, silver coin or piece of gold is bought in the auspicious hours of the day.
Worship Dhanvantari and Lakshmi
In the evening, a lamp and prayers for the family’s health and wellbeing.
Light the Yama deepam
A lamp is placed outside the home facing south, for Yama, praying for protection from untimely death.
Customs differ between regions, communities and families. Where your family or temple has its own way, follow it.
Fasting
Fasting
Not a fasting day.
Fasts should suit your health. Children, elders, pregnant women and anyone unwell or on medication should eat, or keep a lighter fast; that is the tradition, not an exception to it.
Traditions
- Buying new utensils or gold
- Dhanvantari puja
- Yama deepam
पूजा सामग्री
