Dhanteras

Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the start of the main Diwali days, celebrated on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik (Ashwin in the Amanta calendar). The word 'Dhan' signifies wealth, while 'Teras' marks the thirteenth lunar day. However, in the traditional reading, 'Dhan' is not limited to monetary riches; it primarily honors good health ('Arogya Dhan'), as true prosperity cannot be enjoyed without physical and mental wellness.

The day commemorates the divine appearance of Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods and the father of Ayurveda, who emerged from the cosmic ocean carrying the pot of Amrita (immortality nectar). Millions of households celebrate by purchasing new utensils, gold, silver, brassware, and electronic equipment to invite auspicious energy into their homes, concluding with the lighting of the Yamadeep at their doorstep to protect against untimely death.

According to the Srimad Bhagavatam and Vishnu Purana, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the Milky Ocean), the devas and asuras toiled tirelessly for cosmic treasures. At last an extraordinary divine being rose from the ocean's depths, carrying a pot of life-giving Amrita (nectar). This was Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods and the source of Ayurveda. Tradition places his appearance on this day, and temple images show him with four arms, holding the pot of Amrita, sacred leeches (for healing), a conch, and a disc.

A celebrated legend also explains the tradition of lighting lamps (Yamadeep) on Dhanteras night. An astrological prophecy warned that the sixteen-year-old son of King Hima was destined to die of a snakebite on the fourth day of his marriage. On that fateful evening, his clever young bride laid out all her gold and silver ornaments in heaps at the palace entrance, lit hundreds of brass lamps, and kept her husband awake by singing devotional hymns and telling inspiring stories. When Lord Yama arrived disguised as a venomous serpent, the dazzling brilliance of the gold and burning lamps blinded his eyes. Unable to enter, Yama sat upon the heap of gold listening peacefully to the melodious hymns, and when dawn broke, the appointed hour of death had passed, saving the young prince's life.