Dhanteras 2023 – Significance, time, date and puja procedure

Dhanteras is also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanvantri Trayodashi. During most years, Dhanteras falls two days before Diwali. Dhanteras marks the beginning of the grand festival of Diwali in India. It is observed on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu month of Kartik. In 2023, Dhanteras falls on October 22. This auspicious day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Here let us know the significance of Dhanteras, the auspicious puja time, date, and how to perform the Dhanteras puja.

Dhanteras – invitation to wealth and prosperity

Dhanteras holds significant religious and cultural importance for the Hindus. The word "Dhanteras" is a combination of two words: "Dhan," meaning wealth, and "Teras," signifying the thirteenth day. The main objective of celebrating Dhanteras is to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity in one's life. It is believed that performing the Dhanteras puja with devotion and sincerity can bring happiness and financial well-being to the family.

Dhanteras 2023 puja date and time

In 2023, Dhanteras falls on Friday, November 10. In this year, the time prescribed for buying gold and silver is during the trayodashi tithi. The Trayodashi tithi will prevail between 12:35 p.m. on November 10 to 1:57 p.m. on Nov 11.

The Muhurat to perform Dhanteras puja is during the Pradosh Kaal between 5:30 pm and 8:08 pm. The puja muhurat on Friday is between 5:47 pm and 7:43 pm.

Dhanteras Puja Procedure

The Dhanteras puja is a meaningful and interesting ritual that follows some standard steps. These steps will guide you on how to perform Dhanteras puja at home in 2023.

Clean and prepare your home

Clean your home well to prepare for the puja.

Decorate the entrance with rangoli (colorful designs) to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.

In the area designated for the puja, set up a nice altar and place an idol or picture of Goddess Lakshmi.

Light a diya (oil lamp) in front of the image.

Dhanteras Puja procedure

Begin the puja by offering flowers, rice, and vermillion to the Goddess.

Recite some mantras in praise of Goddess Lakshmi, like the Lakshmi Gayatri mantra or the Mahalakshmi Ashtakam.

Offer sweets, fruits, and other delicacies to the Goddess.

Light multiple diyas and arrange them in some interesting patterns. Light incense sticks to get a fragrant atmosphere.

Worship Lord Dhanvantari

If you prefer, you can also worship Lord Dhanvantari on this day by placing his idol or image next to Goddess Lakshmi.

Offer prayers and light a diya for Lord Dhanvantari.

Customary practices

On Dhanteras, it is customary to purchase gold or silver items, which symbolize prosperity.

Some people also donate food, clothing, or money to the less fortunate to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

Perform Aarti

Conclude the puja with the singing of aarti (a devotional song) to the Goddess and Lord Dhanvantari.

Conclusion

Dhanteras is a highly meaningful event in Hindu households. Arrange Dhanteras puja fervently in your home in 2023 and pave the way to health, wealth and prosperity for your whole family. As you celebrate this festival with your loved ones, it helps enhance the family bonds. The popular belief considers that celebrating Dhanteras can bring good fortune and prosperity.