In India, gold (and silver) holds a unique position, representing more than just wealth. From the gifting of gold jewellery during weddings to purchasing gold and silver bars and coins on almost every auspicious occasion and festival, it is intertwined with Indian traditions and culture. Purchasing gold and silver during festivals such as Makar Sankranti, Akshaya Tritiya, Dhanteras and Diwali is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, abundance and auspiciousness. Since Diwali is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi . while Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations, buying gold and silver on Dhanteras holds specific significance.
Significance Of Purchasing Gold And Silver On This Day:
In this regard, Vikas Singh, who is the MD & CEO of MMTC-PAMP said, "In the run-up to the festive season, people prefer to spend more. Given the sentimental value of gold, people have shown a preference for investing in assets such as gold to ensure financial stability."
In addition to him, Deepak Khanna, who is the Owner of DRK Jewels said, "Amidst the celestial celebration of Dhanteras, the acquisition of gold and silver transcends mere material worth, symbolizing profound cultural and economic significance. Rooted in ancient traditions, these precious metals evoke prosperity, auspiciousness, and wealth."
"Buying gold signifies the goddess Lakshmi’s blessings, illuminating one's life with opulence and financial stability, while silver embodies purity and abundance, enriching the soul with positivity and tranquility," he added.
Deepak continued to say that beyond tradition, investing in gold and silver during Dhanteras mirrors an astute financial strategy. "Their enduring value serves as a hedge against inflation, economic uncertainties, and market volatilities, fostering a safeguarded future for generations to come. The act of acquiring these metals isn’t just a transaction; it’s a timeless testament to heritage, preserving cultural values and ensuring a legacy of prosperity. As the lamps are lit and prayers are offered, the purchase of gold and silver during Dhanteras ignites not just wealth but a legacy that glows eternally."
Dhanteras 2023: Simple Rituals To Follow For Enchanting Prospetrity
Celebrity Astrologer Parduman Suri said, "As Dhanteras approaches on November 10th, marked by the auspicious Hasta Nakshatra and falling on a Friday this year, the celebration takes on added significance. There's a special window of time from 5:40 PM to 6 PM for a meaningful ritual. During this period, lighting lamps facing south and worshiping five deities can bring miraculous benefits to your life."
He advises a simple yet powerful ritual: after the evening puja on Dhanteras, light a mustard oil lamp in the south direction at your main entrance between 5:40 PM and 6 PM. This practice is believed to usher in prosperity.
Dhanteras gains added significance this year due to the presence of Hasta Nakshatra and its occurrence on a Friday. Worshiping Lord Dhanvantari, Mother Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, Kubera, and Yama during Dhanteras is said to bring about extraordinary advantages.
The recommended time for the lamp lighting is between 5:40 PM and 6 PM, although the overall auspicious period for puja extends from 5:40 PM to 9:51 PM on Friday.
Significance Of Dhanteras:
Dhanteras holds historical significance rooted in the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician, was born on the thirteenth day of the waning moon in the Kartik month. This event marked the beginning of advancements in medical science. Two days later, Goddess Lakshmi manifested, leading to the Diwali celebration.
The Deities And Their Significance:
Celebrity Astrologer Parduman Suri listed the following:
- Lord Dhanvantari: Worshiping Lord Dhanvantari is an ancient tradition that promotes physical well-being, ensuring a disease-free life.
- Goddess Lakshmi: Goddess Lakshmi, the bestower of wealth and prosperity, is sought after for financial abundance and success. Invoking her blessings on Dhanteras is believed to ensure prosperity and luck.
- Lord Ganesha: Lord Ganesha is worshipped to remove obstacles in business or any auspicious work. Devotees pray for the removal of hindrances to progress.
- Kubera: The deity of wealth, Kubera, is honored on Dhanteras for the growth of wealth. Worshiping Kubera is believed to bring financial stability and success in business.
- Yama: On Dhanteras, a lamp with four faces is lit at the entrance gate for Yamaraja, the god of death. This ritual is thought to protect family members from untimely death throughout the year.
Dhanteras Puja Procedure:
- Place images of Kubera, Lord Dhanvantari, and Goddess Lakshmi on a platform in the north direction during the evening of Dhanteras.
- Light a lamp of desi ghee.
- Offer incense, flowers, akshat, roli, sandalwood, and cloth.
- Recite the Dhanvantari Stotra.
- By following these simple yet meaningful practices, you can enhance the auspiciousness of Dhanteras and invite prosperity into your life.