The festive season is approaching and the entire country is immersed in the Diwali celebrations. Diwali, one of the important festivals celebrated across the nation, is a five-day festivity period that begins on Dhanteras and ends on Bhai Dooj. There is a tradition of buying coriander on Dhanteras, which is considered a symbol of Goddess Lakshmi’s grace and prosperity. Buying coriander is a custom that has been going on for generations. It is believed that devotees who offer coriander to Goddess Lakshmi during the puja receive the blessings of the deity. This also ensures peace and prosperity in their house. As per Pandit Rakesh Chaturvedi, people in cities use dried coriander for offering on Dhanteras. In the village, jaggery and coriander are mixed for the Dhanteras occasion. After the puja, it is considered auspicious to keep this coriander tied in a knot in the safe.
This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29. Also called Dhanatrayodashi, this festival is celebrated during the Trayodashi (13th day) of Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month. Lord Dhanvantri, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and Kuber Dev are worshipped on this special day. The favourable time of Dhanteras puja is from 6 pm to 8 pm. The lucky time for shopping on Dhanteras is from 10 am. On this day, people can purchase gold, silver and other items. In addition to these products, people can also buy groom and utensils. Dhanteras worship and shopping bring prosperity and happiness to a person’s life.
Dhanteras is considered a propitious day. As per popular beliefs, on this day Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods appears from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). He had the nectar of immortality (Amrit Kalash) and some herbs. Some also observe a Pradosh fast on this day, when Lord Shiva is worshipped in the evening.
After Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali will be celebrated on the second day. It honours Lord Krishna’s triumph against the demonic Narakasura. Post the Choti Diwali, Diwali (also known as the festival of the lights) will be celebrated. Govardhan Puja will be observed on day 4 and Bhai Dooj will conclude the Diwali festive season.
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