Dhanteras is one of the most important Hindu religious festivals that are celebrated around this time of the year. Also known as Dhanatrayodashi, the festival is observed all over India. It also marks the beginning of Tihar festival in Nepal. ‘Dhan’ means wealth and ‘teras’ means the thirteenth day of the moon cycle. The festival also signifies the first day of the five-day Diwali celebrations and falls on the thirteenth lunar day of Karthik Krishna Paksha, of the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November).
On Dhanteras, Lakshmi - the Goddess of wealth - is worshiped to provide prosperity and well being. It is also the day for celebrating wealth, as the word 'Dhan' literally means wealth and 'Tera' comes from the date 13th.
In the evening, the lamp is lit and Dhan-Lakshmi is welcomed into the house. Alpana or Rangoli designs are drawn on pathways including the goddess' footprints to mark the arrival of Lakshmi. Aartis or devotional hymns are sung eulogizing Goddess Lakshmi and sweets and fruits are offered to her.
In the evening, the lamp is lit and Dhan-Lakshmi is welcomed into the house. Alpana or Rangoli designs are drawn on pathways including the goddess' footprints to mark the arrival of Lakshmi. Aartis or devotional hymns are sung eulogizing Goddess Lakshmi and sweets and fruits are offered to her.
Hindus also worship Lord Kuber as the treasurer of wealth and bestower of riches, along with Goddess Lakshmi on Dhanteras. This custom of worshiping Lakshmi and Kuber together is in prospect of doubling the benefits of such prayers.
People flock to the jewelers and buy gold or silver jewelry or utensils to venerate the occasion of Dhanteras.
Many wear new clothes and wear jewelry as they light the first lamp of Diwali while some engage in a game of gambling.
