Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the auspicious commencement of the five-day Diwali festivities. This significant Hindu observance is dedicated to honoring Goddess Lakshmi, the divine embodiment of wealth and prosperity. Traditionally, the day is considered highly favorable for acquiring precious metals like gold and silver, along with utensils and other valuable possessions, all believed to usher in good fortune and happiness.
While Dhanteras is renowned for its emphasis on purchasing auspicious items, it also carries specific traditions and restrictions. It is believed that gifting or giving away certain objects on this particular day can be inauscitably and may inadvertently lead to financial setbacks or attract negative influences. To ensure a home filled with positive energy and abundance, here are four types of items that practitioners traditionally avoid giving away on Dhanteras:
**1. Refrain from Giving Away Cash or Coins:** On Dhanteras, the act of donating or gifting money, particularly coins or cash, is thought to invite financial strain. As this day is devoted to Goddess Lakshmi, parting with money is often perceived as symbolically releasing wealth from one’s life. The focus should instead be on welcoming money and valuables into the home to cultivate prosperity. If you feel inclined to donate, it’s advisable to do so a day before or after the main Dhanteras rituals.
**2. Steer Clear of Gifting Black Items:** The color black is frequently associated with negativity and is generally deemed inauspicious during significant festivals like Dhanteras and Diwali. Presenting black-colored clothing, accessories, or footwear is thought to obstruct the influx of positive energies and may invite misfortune. Opt for vibrant colors such as red, yellow, green, or gold, which symbolize prosperity, joy, and divine blessings.
**3. Do Not Gift Oil or Ghee:** Essential for the lighting of diyas and important puja rituals during Dhanteras and Diwali, oil and ghee are seen as powerful symbols of light and positivity. Gifting these away is believed to diminish the brightness and overall prosperity within a household. It is recommended to reserve these items for your own home rituals to uphold divine blessings and maintain wealth.
**4. Avoid Donating Iron Objects:** Items made of iron, including utensils, tools, or decorative pieces, are traditionally not recommended for gifting or donation on Dhanteras. Iron is often associated with the planet Saturn (Shani), and it is believed that offering iron on this day might usher in difficulties or bad luck. Dhanteras is primarily a day for acquiring metals such as gold, silver, or brass, which are inherently linked to fortune and affluence.
To cultivate wealth and happiness this Dhanteras, focus on the ‘Do’s’: purchase gold, silver, or brass items, light thirteen diyas in the evening to ward off negativity, ensure your home is clean and welcoming, offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, and decorate with auspicious symbols. Embracing these practices ensures a vibrant and prosperous Dhanteras 2025.