Dhanteras Trayodashi, the thirteen day of the waning Moon of the months of Kartik (October/Nov), marks the beginning of one of the most important Festivals in the Vedic tradition: : Diwali. Today is called Dhanteras, a day of great importance to the trading class. In fact during Dhanteras people flock to the jewelers and buy gold or silver jewelry or utensils to venerate the occasion of Dhanteras. Many wear new clothes and wear jewelry as they light the first lamp of Diwali.

The name Dhanteras comes from the word ‘Dhan’ literally means wealth and ‘Tera’ comes from the date 13th.
Diwali or Deepawali “Festival of Lights and Wealth” (marks the astronomical turn of season from Autumn to Winter) is celebrated over five days and peaks on day three , New Moon, with Laskhmi puja, offerings to the Goddess of Abundance.
Through the mythology narrated in the Puranas we will try to understand why this Festival of Light comes at this time of year.
There are various stories that revolve around Dhanteras. The most important are briefly outlined here. Continue reading “Happy Dhanteras “Festival of Wealth”, beginning of Diwali “Festival of Lights”. Emergence of Dhanvantari and Lakshmi from the Milky Ocean.”