Dhanteras is also known as ‘Small Diwali,’ is observed on the thirteenth day of Kartik month’s dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) to honour Yamaraj, the god of death. This day is marked by lighting lamps outside homes to please Yamaraj and protect against untimely death.
According to Chapter 124 of the Padma Purana’s Uttarakhanda, lighting a lamp for Yamaraj on this day is believed to prevent premature death. Devotees chant a special mantra while lighting the lamp:
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Rituals To Follow On Dhanteras:
To avoid the dread of Yama’s realm, devotees are advised to bathe at moonrise on Kartik Krishna Chaturdashi. Bathing with Apamarga (Prickly Chaff Flower), Tumbi (Bottle Gourd), Prarputra (Prickly Amaranth), and Katphal (Box Myrtle) on the head is believed to banish fears of the afterlife. During this ritual, devotees pray, “O Apamarga! I swirl you over my head repeatedly to cleanse my sins.” After this, they offer water to Yamaraj, reciting his names and mantras, including Yamay Namah, Dharmarajay Namah, Mrityave Namah, among others.
Rituals Of Light On Dhanteras:
In line with tradition, people light oil or ghee lamps on rooftops, houses, and shops, resembling the festive glow of Diwali but on a smaller scale. This day is often called ‘Small Diwali’ due to this similar display. In places like Varanasi’s Thatheri Bazaar, shopkeepers polish their brassware and display fine sarees, creating a captivating sight. Buying new utensils on Dhanteras is also customary, believed to invite wealth into homes.
Worshipping Kubera And Dhanvantari:
Following ancient customs, people worship Kubera, the god of wealth, and Dhanvantari, the god of medicine, on Dhanteras for blessings of prosperity and health. Although this tradition lacks a direct mention in texts like the Padma Purana or Skanda Purana, its longstanding practice has made it integral to Dhanteras celebrations.
Dhanteras Puja Rituals:
On Dhanteras, households honour Yamaraj with offerings to seek his blessings for protection from untimely death. Clay from a field is soaked in milk and sprinkled over the body with a Simul (Silk Cotton) tree twig, followed by marking the forehead with vermilion. Lighting lamps near temples, wells, gardens, and cowsheds for three days is a custom, especially if the Sun is in Libra. These traditions are believed to provide a safe path for ancestors and ward off untimely death.
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