Celebrating Dhanteras And 9 Things You Should Not Buy On The Festive Occasion
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For those following Hinduism, Dhanteras is a significant festival, and it marks the start of the festival of Diwali. On this occasion, people usually buy gold, silver, and other kinds of utensils as it is considered auspicious. Hindus usually see this as an occasion to invest as they believe that whatever they invest in on this day will reap rich benefits. It is also the day people celebrate the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. On this day, the house is cleaned and Lakshmi puja is performed. This is so that the home is inviting for Lakshmi and she can enter it in good faith. Now, let’s try and understand the reason behind the celebration of Dhanteras.
What Do People Do During Dhanteras?
On the occasion of Dhanteras, families are supposed to get together and perform puja. A diya is lit, and it is meant to remain lit for the entirety of the night. During this puja, people are meant to worship the three forms of Goddess Shakti, the ultimate, divine feminine power. Those are Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Mahalakshmi, and Maha Kali. The Lords Ganesha and Kuber are also meant to be worshipped on this occasion as they represent education, wealth, serenity, and peace. Offerings are made in the form of dry fruits, sweets, and fruits. During the puja, camphor is lit so that the house smells welcoming and inviting.
However, before you get excited about shopping, there are a few things that you shouldn’t be buying during this season:
1. Iron
Many people believe that buying iron on the occasion of Dhanteras is not a good idea. It is advised to purchase iron before or after the day and not on the day. People believe that buying iron on the day of Dhanteras is not ideal as it may bring bad luck to the house. Instead, it’s a good idea to purchase other types of metals like copper and brass. Investing in gold on this occasion is considered good and many prefer buying gold biscuits during this occasion.
2. Sharp Objects
Many people believe that buying sharp objects like knives, scissors or others on the occasion of Dhanteras is not a good idea. This once again goes back to the point that most of these kitchen objects are made of iron, and buying iron on this day is inauspicious.
3. Cars
On the day of Dhanteras, many families will bring home cars as it is considered good luck. However, it is advised to make the payment related to the car at least a day prior to actually buying the car.
4. Oil
People are also advised not to purchase oil on the day of Dhanteras, and it is advisable to keep a backup of oil. Since oil is essential during these festivals for cooking, to light the diyas and lamps, and to run their vehicles, it is advisable to keep the stock piled ahead of time.
5. Items That Are Black
Black is considered an inauspicious color and people are advised not to buy any products that are black in color on the day of this occasion. Many people believe that black symbolizes bad luck, and this is probably why they prefer not to buy products that are black in color on this day.
6. Gifts
Since Dhanteras is about bringing gold into the house, many people prefer not to give gifts during this time. Since most gifts on festive occasions are monetary or in the form of gold, buying gifts during this time is not advisable. It is considered inauspicious to give out gold or money during this time as people don’t want to give out their wealth on Dhanteras. However, feel free to gift your loved ones before or after the day of Dhanteras.
7. Glass Products
Since glass is associated with Rahu, people are advised not to buy it on the day of Dhanteras. According to Hindu mythology, Rahu represents mischief, materialism, dissatisfaction, fear, and many other bad virtues, and hence people are advised not to purchase glass. Rahu is also seen as a negative figure and an enemy of the sun and moon. The sun and the moon are extremely important figures in Hindu mythology.
8. Fake Gold
Fake gold is another item that should not be purchased on this occasion. Many people believe that purchasing fake gold is not a good idea as real gold is the only thing that should be purchased on this auspicious occasion.
9. Empty Utensils
It is considered inauspicious to purchase empty vessels on this day. Considering that shopkeepers will not sell you utensils that are already filled, people believe that you should fill the utensils with water or other food items before you enter the doorway of your house. This is to ward off any negative energy before you enter your home.
For believers of this festival, this is a great way to start with the festivities of Diwali and many rituals are meant to be followed. It is also a good way to spend time with the family and bond together over tradition. Tell us how you will be celebrating Dhanteras this year? Let us know all your thoughts in the comment section below.
