Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. This year, it will be celebrated on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The festival is also known as Dhanatrayodashi, as it falls on the Trayodashi Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik, according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
On this day, people worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, who are believed to bring wealth, fortune, and prosperity to homes.
When is Dhanteras in 2025?
According to the Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi will begin at 12:18 PM on October 18 and will end at 1:51 PM on October 19.
The Pradosh Kaal, which is the most auspicious time for worship, will begin at 5:48 PM and end at 8:19 PM.
The Vrishabha Kaal, another favorable period for Puja, will begin at 7:15 PM and end at 9:11 PM.
Hence, the Dhanteras Puja Muhurat will be between 7:15 PM to 8:19 PM.
Why Dhanteras Is Celebrated
Dhanteras is celebrated with devotion and joy across India. Homes and workplaces are decorated with diyas, flowers, and colorful rangolis.
People buy gold, silver, utensils, and electronics on this day. It is believed that new purchases made on Dhanteras bring good luck and prosperity. The markets remain lively and filled with excitement as people shop for new items to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera.
The day is also linked with the legend of Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). It is believed that Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, emerged from the ocean on this day. This makes Dhanteras especially sacred and symbolic of health, wealth, and renewal.
Traditional Rituals and Puja Vidhi
On Dhanteras, people begin their day with a holy bath early in the morning. Homes and temples are thoroughly cleaned and decorated to welcome positive energy.
During the Puja, devotees place idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Dhanvantari on the altar. Items bought during the Shubh Muhurat are placed before the deities for blessings.
People light diyas (lamps) and pray for happiness, health, and prosperity. In the evening, lamps are lit outside homes to ward off negative energy and invite fortune.
Many families also share sweets and gifts with loved ones as a symbol of love and prosperity.
Significance of the Festival
Dhanteras is not just a shopping festival; it’s a celebration of faith and new beginnings. It marks the arrival of Diwali and sets the tone for the days of joy that follow.
By observing the rituals with devotion, people believe they attract wealth, happiness, and divine blessings into their lives.
