Dhanteras 2024: What to buy, what not to buy and more; check all details

Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festival in India. Also known as Dhanatrayodashi, Dhanteras is celebrated on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin (September-October) or Kartika (October-November), in the Hindu lunar calendar. The word Dhan means wealth and Teras means thirteenth. This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on October 29.

Dhanteras significance

On the day of Dhanteras, the God of Ayurveda, Lord Dhanvantari, is worshipped to pray for good health. Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped too. It is believed that praying to God Dhanvantari can cure all illnesses. The festival of Dhanteras is considered highly auspicious for buying new items like gold and silver jewellery, vehicles, utensils, property, electronic gadgets, etc as a symbol of prosperity.

What should you buy on this Dhanteras?

• Gold and silver: Buying gold and silver is the most popular ritual in Hindu traditions as it is believed to bring prosperity to the family.
• Utensils: Another most common item people buy on Dhanteras is copper and brass utensils. It is said to symbolise abundance and prosperity in the household.
• Electronic items: Items like phones, laptops, washing machines and other home appliances are popularly bought on Dhanteras.
• Broom: Broom is considered to be lucky and symbolises the removal of financial issues from the household when bought on Dhanteras.
• Vehicles: Many consider Dhanteras to be the best time to buy vehicles as it is believed to bring success in the life journey.
• Clothes: New clothes mark the start of something fresh and buying clothes on Dhanteras is considered auspicious as it represents a new and beautiful beginning.

What should you avoid buying on Dhanteras?

• Glass items: On Dhanteras, glassware is believed to be inauspicious. Instead, buy utensils made of brass and copper.
• Oil/ghee: Although it is not possible to completely eliminate oil or ghee during the Diwali festival, it is advised to minimise its use and to avoid buying it on Dhanteras.
• Sharp objects: Buying sharp objects like knives, scissors, etc is believed to bring bad luck if purchased on Dhanteras.
• Exchange of gifts: It is advised to not exchange gifts on this day as it is believed to push positive vibes away from the household.
• Lending money: Borrowing and lending money on this day is also considered inauspicious by many.
• Black items: Black is associated with bad luck. Thus, black items should be avoided on this festival.
• Shoes: Buying shoes is not considered good for a household during the Dhanteras festival.
• Fake jewellery: Buying fake gold or silver jewellery is considered bad on this day as it is believed to drive prosperity away.