Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is one of the most important festivals celebrated before Diwali. It marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival in many parts of India. On this auspicious occasion, families clean and decorate their homes, light traditional diyas, worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, and welcome prosperity and good health.

Dhanteras is also traditionally associated with purchasing gold, silver, utensils and other useful household items. However, the deeper message of the festival is that wealth should be accompanied by good health, gratitude, happiness and kindness.

1. Dhanteras 2026 Date and Puja Muhurat

Dhanteras will be celebrated on Friday, 6 November 2026. It falls on the Trayodashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. Devotees traditionally worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari on this day.

The puja is traditionally performed during the evening Pradosh period. Since auspicious timings depend on local sunrise and sunset calculations, people should confirm the muhurat for their own city.

2. What Is Dhanteras?

The word Dhanteras comes from two Sanskrit-derived words: Dhan, meaning wealth, and Teras, referring to the thirteenth lunar day. The festival is also called Dhantrayodashi.

For many families, Dhanteras is a day to pray for prosperity, financial stability, good health and a peaceful home. It is also associated with Dhanvantari, who is revered in Hindu tradition as the divine physician and connected with Ayurveda.

3. History and Mythological Story of Dhanteras

One popular story associated with Dhanteras comes from the Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the cosmic ocean. According to Hindu mythology, gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain Amrit, the divine nectar of immortality.

During this event, Lord Dhanvantari emerged carrying a pot of Amrit. He is worshipped as the divine physician and is associated with Ayurveda and the well-being of humanity. This is one reason Dhanteras is considered a festival that honours health as well as prosperity.

Another popular legend tells the story of a young prince whose life was believed to be in danger because of a prediction. According to the tale, his wife kept lamps burning and placed shining objects near the entrance to keep him awake and alert. The story is associated with the tradition of lighting lamps on Dhanteras and worshipping Yama, the deity connected with death and justice.

4. Religious and Cultural Significance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras carries several important messages in Indian culture:

• Prosperity: Worship of Goddess Lakshmi is associated with abundance and good fortune.
• Wealth and responsibility: Lord Kubera is traditionally worshipped as the guardian of wealth.
• Good health: Lord Dhanvantari represents healing, Ayurveda and well-being.
• Light over darkness: Diyas represent hope, positivity and the victory of light.
• Family togetherness: Families prepare their homes and celebrate together.

5. Dhanteras Puja Vidhi

Families follow different customs according to their traditions. A simple and commonly followed Dhanteras puja may include these steps:

1. Clean and decorate the home, especially the entrance and prayer area.
2. Prepare a clean place for the puja.
3. Arrange flowers, fruits, sweets, water and traditional offerings.
4. Light a diya and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari according to family tradition.
5. Offer prayers for health, happiness and prosperity.
6. Share prasad with family members.

People may also draw rangoli designs near the entrance and light lamps around their homes. Follow your family’s customs and seek guidance from a knowledgeable family priest if you need help with specific rituals.

6. What Do People Buy on Dhanteras?

Buying something new is a popular Dhanteras custom. Many people consider it an auspicious occasion to purchase items for their homes or families.

• Gold: Jewellery and gold coins are traditional choices for some families.
• Silver: Silver coins, utensils and other items are also popular.
• Utensils: Steel, brass and copper household utensils are commonly purchased.
• Home essentials: Some families choose useful items for their kitchens or homes.
• Decorative items: Diyas, lamps and festive decorations help prepare the home for Diwali.

There is no need to spend beyond your budget. The festival can be celebrated meaningfully with a small diya, a simple household item or prayers with family.

7. Home Decoration and Dhanteras Celebrations

Home decoration is one of the most enjoyable parts of Dhanteras. Families clean their homes, decorate entrances and prepare for the arrival of Diwali.

Popular decoration ideas include:

• Making colourful rangoli designs.
• Lighting traditional clay diyas.
• Decorating doors with flowers and torans.
• Using lanterns and decorative lights.
• Preparing a beautiful and clean prayer space.

8. Yam Deepam Tradition

Yam Deepam, also known in some traditions as Yama Deepam, is an important lamp-lighting custom associated with Dhanteras. Families light a diya in honour of Yama, praying for the well-being and long life of family members.

The exact method and timing may differ according to regional and family traditions. People should follow their local customs and Panchang guidance.

9. How Dhanteras Is Celebrated in Different Parts of India

Dhanteras is celebrated across India, although customs and regional traditions can differ.

North India

Families commonly clean and decorate their homes, purchase utensils or precious metals, perform Lakshmi-Kuber puja and light diyas.

Western India

In states such as Gujarat and Maharashtra, Dhanteras is connected with the wider Diwali festivities. Families may prepare traditional sweets, decorate homes and perform prayers.

South India

Some communities observe Dhanvantari-related traditions and prayers for health. The wider Diwali period includes several regional customs and celebrations.

Eastern India

Families observe the festival according to local customs, often combining prayers, home decoration and preparations for the coming Diwali celebrations.

10. Simple Ways to Celebrate Dhanteras

You do not need expensive purchases to enjoy the festival. Here are some simple ways to celebrate:

• Spend time cleaning and decorating your home.
• Light a few traditional diyas safely.
• Prepare or share sweets with family and neighbours.
• Offer prayers for health, peace and prosperity.
• Help someone in need through a thoughtful act.
• Make purchases thoughtfully and within your budget.

11. Interesting Facts About Dhanteras

• Dhanteras is also called Dhantrayodashi.
• It is associated with the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in Kartik.
• It marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities in many Indian traditions.
• Lord Dhanvantari is associated with Ayurveda and good health.
• Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera are worshipped by many families.
• Buying gold, silver or utensils is a popular custom, but it is not compulsory.
• Lamps and rangoli are common parts of the celebration.

12. Frequently Asked Questions About Dhanteras 2026