Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is an auspicious day in the Hindu calendar that marks the beginning of the Diwali festival. It is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of health and medicine, and is considered an ideal day for making new purchases, especially gold, silver, and other valuables. While buying new items is a tradition on Dhanteras, some items should be avoided, as they are believed to bring bad luck or misfortune.

Here is detailed guide on what not to avoid and buy on Dhanteras to ensure a prosperous start to the festive season:

The Significance of Dhanteras and Purchasing Rituals

Dhanteras is celebrated on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashwin. It is a day when families engage in the purchase of gold, silver, and other assets, as these are believed to invite wealth and prosperity. However, according to traditional beliefs and Vastu Shastra principles, certain items should be avoided, as their purchase may inadvertently bring negativity or disturb the positive energy of the home.

Importance of Following Rituals on Dhanteras

1. Enhancing Positive Energy: Certain rituals and practices on Dhanteras are meant to attract positive energy into the home.
2. Avoiding Inauspicious Purchases: It is believed that certain purchases can disrupt the flow of wealth and invite misfortune.
3. Strengthening Family Bonds: Observing these customs is also about family unity and collective adherence to traditional values.

Items You Should Buy & Avoid Buying on Dhanteras

1. Iron and Steel Utensils

Avoid: Purchasing iron or steel items on Dhanteras is considered inauspicious because these metals are associated with the planet Saturn (Shani), which can bring negative influences. As per Vastu Shastra, bringing home iron or steel on this day may attract hardship or financial strain.

Buy: Alternative Suggestion: If you wish to buy utensils, opt for gold, silver, brass, or copper items, as these metals are believed to attract wealth and prosperity.

2. Sharp Objects or Knives

Avoid:Sharp objects such as knives, scissors, and other cutting tools should not be purchased on Dhanteras. The rationale behind this belief is that sharp objects symbolize discord and can cut the harmony in the household. Bringing such items into the home during a time of celebration could lead to conflict or disputes within the family.

Buy: Alternative Suggestion: If you need to buy household items, choose items that represent positivity and unity, like home décor or utensils made of auspicious metals.

3. Black Clothing or Items

Avoid: Black is often associated with negativity, mourning, and bad luck in Hindu culture. As Dhanteras is a day for attracting prosperity and positive energy, it is advised to avoid purchasing black clothing or items.

Buy Alternative Suggestion: Opt for vibrant colors such as yellow, red, orange, or green, which symbolize happiness, good fortune, and positive energy.

4. Empty Containers

Avoid: Bringing empty containers or vessels into the home on Dhanteras is considered a sign of emptiness and lack. The symbolism associated with empty containers can imply that the household may face financial difficulties or a lack of resources in the coming year.

Buy Alternative Suggestion: If you wish to purchase containers, ensure that they are filled with grains, water, or any other auspicious items to signify abundance and prosperity.

Read also: How to Celebrate Diwali in a Traditional Way in Jammu

5. Artificial Jewelry

Avoid: Artificial jewelry may be attractive, but purchasing it on Dhanteras is not recommended. The day is meant for investing in real valuables that symbolize long-term wealth. Buying artificial or imitation jewelry could detract from the essence of this tradition, which is to secure genuine assets that hold true value.

Buy Alternative Suggestion: Invest in real gold, silver, or gemstone jewelry, as these are considered auspicious and help attract wealth.

6. Empty Wallets or Purses

Avoid: Buying empty wallets or purses on Dhanteras is not advised, as it symbolizes a lack of money or resources. The symbolism here suggests that your finances could remain unfulfilled or that monetary flow might be hindered.

Buy Alternative Suggestion: If you are buying a wallet or purse, make sure to place some money, a coin, or a small piece of silver in it to signify the incoming flow of wealth.

7. Glass or Fragile Items

Avoid: Glass and fragile items can easily break, which symbolizes instability and fragility in one’s life or finances. Purchasing such items on an auspicious day like Dhanteras could attract negative energy or misfortune.

Buy Alternative Suggestion: Consider purchasing solid and durable items that symbolize strength and stability, such as brass décor or wooden furniture.

Buy Broom: For those on a tighter budget, purchasing a broom is another meaningful gesture, symbolising the removal of financial worries.

Buying Vehicles on Dhanteras

The festival is also seen as a favourable time to purchase vehicles such as cars and motorcycles, believing that doing so will bring success in various endeavours. Some experts suggest paying a day earlier to maintain a positive atmosphere at home.

Rituals and Traditions to Observe for Prosperity on Dhanteras

While avoiding certain purchases on Dhanteras is important, following positive rituals can enhance the auspiciousness of the day. Here are some practices to observe:

1. Perform Lakshmi Puja

Lakshmi Puja is an integral part of Dhanteras celebrations. It is performed to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Lighting a Diya (lamp) in every corner of the house is believed to drive away negativity and welcome positivity.

2. Purchase Gold or Silver Coins

Buying gold or silver coins engraved with symbols of Goddess Lakshmi or Lord Ganesha is considered auspicious on Dhanteras. These coins are often kept in the home temple or locker to symbolize wealth and attract prosperity.

3. Clean and Decorate the Home

Cleaning the house thoroughly and decorating it with rangoli and flowers creates a welcoming environment for positive energy. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi resides in places that are clean and well-decorated.

Dhanteras is a time for ushering in wealth, health, and prosperity. By being mindful of what to avoid purchasing and adhering to traditional beliefs, we can ensure that the positive energy associated with this festival flows uninterrupted into our lives. The items listed above are generally believed to carry negative connotations when purchased on Dhanteras, but following suggested alternatives can help align with the auspiciousness of the day.