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Dhanteras
Traditionally, the festival of lights, Diwali is celebrated over a
period of five days. Each one of the five days has its unique
connotation, ceremonies and legends associated.
What is Dhanteras?
The every first day of Diwali celebrations is Dhanteras. The festival of
Dhanteras is also referred to as Dhantryaodashi. Dhanteras marks the
beginning of Diwali celebrations.
When is Dhanteras celebrated?
Dhanteras is celebrated on the thirteenth day of the month of Ashwin
i.e. two days before Diwali.
Why is Dhanteras celebrated?
Dhanteras is celebrated to seek blessings of Goddess Laxmi, the goddess
of wealth. In the amalgamation of Dhan teras 'Dhan' means wealth. People
and specially the rich community celebrate Dhan teras festival widely.
How is Dhanteras celebrated?
Dhanteras is regarded as an auspicious occasion to buy some gold or
silver articles. Many people shop for new utensils for their household.
Dhanteras festival is ideal time for setting up businesses, commencing
new projects, housewarming, deciding wedding dates, buying cars and
jewellery.
Today, exchange of Dhanteras gifts is extremely popular. Special gifts
for Dhanteras flood the markets.
What is the legend behind Dhanteras?
The legend behind Dhanteras is centred on the sixteen-year-old son of
King Hima. As per his horoscope he was fated to breathe his last on the
fourth day of his marriage owing to snakebite. On the appointed day his
wife illuminated the house with numerous lamps and placed a heap of gold
and silver coins and ornaments in front of their bedroom. All through
the night she sang songs and told stories.
The lights of the lamps, and the dazzle of the coins and ornaments
blinded the god of death, Yam devta, who had come as a serpent. He spent
the entire night in the heap listening to the sweet sounding songs
before leaving peacefully the next morning. Thus, the wife succeeded in
saving the life of her husband. This explains, why the Dhan teras
festival is also referred to as "Yamadeepdaan".
HAPPY DIWALI AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY !!
hAVE a nICE tIME.
With Best Regards,
Jyotiba
� �
