The festival of Diwali begins with Dhantrayodashi, also known as Dhanteras. According to Hindu belief, on this day after the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Lord Dhanvantari appeared holding a pot of nectar (Amrit) in his hands. Lord Dhanvantari is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is known as the father of Ayurveda.
This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on Saturday, October 18, 2025.
Morning Rituals:
On Dhanteras morning, after taking a bath in a sacred river, worship Lord Dhanvantari following the Panchopachar method (five-step ritual).
1. Place a picture of Lord Dhanvantari holding the pot of nectar on a clean wooden platform.
2. Offer incense, diya, flowers, naivedya, and perform aarti.
It is believed that worshipping Lord Dhanvantari in this way on Dhanteras brings good health and prosperity.
After performing the morning puja, it is considered auspicious to buy new items in the afternoon. When shopping, make sure to purchase something made of silver, as buying silver on Dhanteras is said to bring wealth, happiness, and prosperity throughout the year.
In the evening, perform Deep Daan (lamp offering) dedicated to Lord Yama, the God of Death. This ritual is known as “Yam Deep Daan.”
1. Clean the main entrance of your home and apply a thin layer of cow dung at the doorstep.
2. Light two diyas filled with oil and place them outside the main door.
3. While lighting the lamps, chant the mantra “Deep Jyoti Namostute” and face the south direction.
Performing Yam Deep Daan on Dhanteras is believed to protect the family from untimely death and misfortune.
According to scriptures, Pradosh Kaal lasts for about two ghadi (48 minutes) after sunset. Some scholars consider it to begin one ghadi (24 minutes) before sunset and continue one ghadi after sunset.
