PM, Union Ministers, Rahul Gandhi extend Dhanteras greetings

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, among others, on Tuesday greeted the people on the occasion of Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanteras, the first day of Deepavali festival.

Celebrated on the 13th lunar day of Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu calendar month of Kartika, Dhanteras marks the beginning of three-day festival of lights, Deepawali. Lord Dhanvantari, considered as the God of health and Ayurveda, is worshipped on this day. Hindus consider this as an extremely auspicious day for making new purchases, especially of gold or silver articles and new utensils. It is believed that purchasing new "Dhan" (wealth) or some item made of precious metal brings good luck. The day also witnesses heavy purchase of appliances and automobiles. (UNI)