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Why Dhanteras is Celebrated: Insights into Its Mythology, Traditions, and Significance

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The festival of Dhanteras holds significant importance in Indian culture and religious beliefs. It is a symbol of health, prosperity, and longevity, marking the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations. Let’s delve into why Dhanteras is celebrated, along with its mythological stories, beliefs, and associated traditions.

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The Story of Samudra Manthan and Lord Dhanvantari

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According to mythology, during the Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean by the gods and demons, several priceless treasures emerged, including Lord Dhanvantari, who appeared on Dhanteras day carrying a pot of Amrit, the nectar of immortality. Dhanvantari is considered the god of health and the father of Ayurveda. Therefore, on this day, people worship him for good health and longevity.

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Especially those associated with the fields of medicine and health regard Lord Dhanvantari as an ideal, and worship him. Because of Lord Dhanvantari’s appearance on this day, it is called Dhanteras or Dhanvantari Trayodashi. This day is celebrated as a symbol of health, well-being, and prosperity due to its emphasis on Ayurveda.

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Worship of Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi

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Lord Kuber is considered the god of wealth and riches. According to mythological beliefs, Kuber protects wealth and property and blesses his devotees with prosperity. Thus, worshipping him on Dhanteras holds special significance.

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On this day, people also worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that on Dhanteras night, Goddess Lakshmi visits Earth and blesses her devotees. Decorating homes, lighting lamps, and performing Lakshmi Puja are part of the Dhanteras tradition. It is believed that doing so pleases Goddess Lakshmi, bringing lasting wealth and prosperity to the household.

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Protection of Wealth and Prayers for Prosperity

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Buying new items such as utensils, jewelry, gold, silver, clothes, etc. on this day is considered auspicious. It is believed that items purchased on this day bring good fortune and prosperity and stay with the household for a long time. There is a tradition of buying utensils on Dhanteras, symbolizing health and prosperity. People typically purchase utensils and fill them with rice, wheat, or water to symbolize abundance in the home.
" "Purchasing gold and silver jewelry or coins on this day is also considered auspicious. It is believed that this brings an increase in wealth and prosperity, and Goddess Lakshmi resides in the household.

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Offering Light to Yama, the God of Death

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On Dhanteras evening, people light lamps outside their homes as an offering to Yama, the god of death. According to legend, the son of King Hima was fated to die on the night of Dhanteras. When Yama came to collect his soul, he saw the entire place illuminated by the lamps lit outside the house. Pleased, Yama blessed the king’s son with a long life.
" "This tradition signifies that lighting a lamp outside on Dhanteras night pleases Yama, who blesses the family with longevity. It is believed that this practice wards off untimely death and brings happiness to the home.

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Tradition of Cleaning and Decorating the House

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On Dhanteras, people clean and decorate their homes and shops to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi resides only where cleanliness and peace prevail. Making rangolis, decorating with flowers, and placing auspicious symbols at the entrance are part of this tradition. Rangoli is created to welcome Goddess Lakshmi so that she enters the home and blesses it with prosperity.

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Importance of Health and Ayurveda

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Due to the appearance of Lord Dhanvantari on Dhanteras, this day is also seen as a day to promote health and awareness of Ayurveda. People take a pledge to take care of their health and focus on measures to stay healthy. Ayurveda emphasizes ancient medical practices and natural remedies. Therefore, some people on this day are inspired to adopt Ayurvedic medicines and natural treatments.

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Conclusion

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The festival of Dhanteras is not just a day to worship wealth and property; it is also a symbol of faith in health, prosperity, and longevity. This festival reminds us to maintain balance in life, understand the value of both wealth and health, and connect with our culture and traditions.