Dhanteras Puja 2023: Guidelines for Revering Goddess Lakshmi – Do’s and Don’ts

Dhanteras, which falls on November 10, 2023, signifies the commencement of the five-day Diwali festival. On this auspicious occasion, devotees honor and seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. The word “Dhanteras” itself reflects its significance, with “Dhan” meaning wealth and “Tera” referring to the 13th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Kartik.

In Hindu mythology, Dhanteras is associated with the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi during the Samudra Manthan, where she sat upon a lotus and held a vessel filled with gold, symbolizing fortune, success, happiness, and wealth. To welcome her, homes are adorned with intricate rangolis, and the warm glow of diyas illuminates the surroundings. In the evening, earthen lamps are lit both at the entrance and throughout the household to dispel negative energies.

To shed light on the customs and practices of this auspicious day, we spoke with Prerna Malhotra, an esteemed astrologer affiliated with the All India Institute of Occult Science and True Vastu, an institution founded by Chairman Gurudev Shrie Kashyap.

DO’s on Dhanteras:

1. Perform Lakshmi Puja during Pradosh Kaal: The most opportune time to perform Lakshmi Puja is during Pradosh Kaal, which encompasses the two-hour period following sunset. This ritual is believed to attract prosperity and good fortune to the household.
2. Clean Your Home: Prior to the festivities, it is customary to cleanse and prepare your house to receive the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
3. Illuminate Your Home: Light up your residence with the gentle glow of diyas and candles, and embellish it with intricate rangolis, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the goddess.
4. Purchase Precious Metals and Idols: It is considered highly auspicious to acquire gold, silver coins, and idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on Dhanteras.
5. Donate Medicines or Eye Drops: Mark this day by engaging in acts of charity, such as donating medicines or eye drops to those in need, as Dhanteras is dedicated to the God of Ayurveda.
6. Initiate Business Ventures: Dhanteras presents a propitious occasion to launch a business venture or a shop. Writing “Shubh Labh” on a piece of white paper and placing it near the idol of Goddess Lakshmi is believed to bring good luck.
7. Purchase Salt: Buying salt on Dhanteras is believed to bring good fortune. Use this salt for preparing meals during Diwali and sprinkle a small amount while cleaning your house on Diwali to dispel negative energies.

DON’Ts on Dhanteras:

1. Abstain from Liquor and Non-Vegetarian Foods: On Dhantrayodashi, it is customary to avoid consuming alcohol and non-vegetarian dishes.
2. Avoid Causing Harm: Refrain from causing any harm or trouble to others during the Diwali festival, particularly on Dhanteras.
3. Don’t Make Bill Payments: It is advisable not to make any bill payments on Dhanteras.
4. Avoid Borrowing or Lending Money: Steer clear of activities involving borrowing or lending money on this day.
5. Refrain from Buying Black-Colored Items: When shopping on Dhanteras, avoid purchasing black-colored items and instead opt for colors like gold, orange, yellow, or red.
6. Avoid Purchasing Electric Appliances and Cars: While making purchases, it’s suggested to forgo buying electric appliances and cars on Dhanteras.
7. Settle Pending Payments Before Dhanteras: Prioritize settling any pending payments before the arrival of Dhanteras to ensure a smooth and prosperous beginning to the festive season.