Dhantrayodashi or Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities in India. The day falls on the 13th day of the Krishna Paksha of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik. According to Hindu Mythology, on this day while the churning of the ocean (Sagar Manthan) Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth), Kuber (God of Wealth), and Lord Dhanvantri (God of Ayurveda) emerged from the oceans. ALSO READ|Diwali 2020: Check All Important Dates, Shubh Muhurat & Puja Timings For The Festival Of Lights The festival marks the worship of these three gods along with Yamraj (Lord of deaths). Lord Dhanvantari, according to Hindu Mythology, emerged during Samudra Manthan, holding a Kalasha full of Amrit in one hand and the sacred text about Ayurveda in the other hand. He is considered to be the Vaidya of Gods. As per the belief, Goddess Lakshmi visits the homes of her devotees and fulfills their wishes on Dhanteras. People light diyas and try to them burning all through the night of Dhanteras to please Lakshmi and Dhanvantari. Since the festival of Dhanteras is considered as the day of prosperity and health, people buy gold, silver, and utensils, as they believe that new wealth or some items made of precious metal would earn good luck.

Dhanteras: Date and timing

Lakshmi Puja on Dhanteras should be performed during Pradosh Kaal. This year the Pradosh Kaal on Dhateras falls on November 13 and, starts after sunset and is expected to last for around 2 hours and 24 minutes. As most of the people buy precious metals on the day of Dhanteras as the ritual, buying can also be done on November 12 in the Abhijeet Muhurt from 11:20 AM to 12:04 PM. This year, Dhanteras Puja will be observed on November 13 which is Friday. Dhanteras Puja Muhurat would be between 05:28 PM and 05:59 PM. ALSO READ|Diwali 2020: Mantras & Slokas To Chant During Laxmi And Kali Puja Also, you can perform Lakshmi Puja on Dhanteras during Pradosh Kaal (between 05:28 PM and 08:07 PM) after sunset.