Dhanteras 2024: Date, Time, Rituals, Auspicious Moments, and the Essence of Charity

Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, marks the vibrant beginning of Diwali, one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. This year, it will be observed on October 29, 2024, during the Trayodashi (13th day) of Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month.

This auspicious day is dedicated to the themes of wealth, prosperity, and good health. The festival is deeply intertwined with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the god of medicine, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

On Dhanteras, people engage in heartfelt acts of devotion, donations, and festive shopping, as it is regarded as a day that brings good fortune and blessings.

Dhanteras 2024 Date and Puja Muhurat

Dhanteras will take place on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. According to the Hindu calendar, the auspicious time for Dhanteras Puja is from 6:52 PM to 8:30 PM. This sacred window is ideal for offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and seeking her blessings for prosperity and happiness.

The Importance of Dhanteras

Dhanteras is a festive occasion filled with joy and anticipation, where homes are transformed through cleaning and vibrant decorations, and the warm glow of oil lamps (diyas) lights up the night. Families gather to perform Lakshmi Puja, inviting the goddess’s blessings for abundance and prosperity.

Shopping takes center stage, with gold, silver, and gleaming utensils symbolizing not just wealth but the promise of a prosperous year ahead. This celebration also honors Lord Dhanvantari, the divine healer who emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) with the pot of Amrit (nectar of immortality). Devotees seek his blessings for health and well-being, making Dhanteras a perfect blend of wealth and wellness!

Shloka on Charity and Blessings:

“यस्य दानं कृता भक्तिः, स निर्वाणं समश्नुते।

प्रभु प्रसादेन तस्यैव, न सुखं दुर्लभं भवेत्॥”

English Translation:

He who offers charity with devotion shall attain liberation.

By the grace of the Lord, no happiness shall be out of reach for him.

Regional Celebrations and Donations on Dhanteras

• North India: In states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana, homes are cleaned and decorated with rangolis and diyas. People pray to Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi for health and prosperity. Donations of blankets, clothes, and food to the underprivileged are common and believed to attract divine blessings.
• Maharashtra: Dhanteras aligns with Vasu Baras, where cows are honored. People pray to Lord Kuber and donate money, cattle feed, and grains to rural communities. Contributions to health initiatives, like medical camps and medicines for the poor, are also prevalent.
• South India: In Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, people offer prayers to Lord Yama and donate food, clothes, and educational materials to children in need. Donations to orphanages and temples for community meals are also significant.
• Western India (Gujarat & Rajasthan): Business owners open new account books and start the financial year. Donations often support education, healthcare, and welfare for the differently-abled. People contribute clothes, utensils, and grains to those less fortunate.
• West Bengal: Celebrated as Kali Chaudas, Dhanteras involves worshiping Goddess Kali. People donate financial aid, clothes, and food to temples and local charities, seeking the goddess’s blessings for protection and prosperity.
• Punjab: Farmers express gratitude to their cattle and offer prayers for prosperity. Charity includes donations to Gurudwaras, which run langar (community kitchens), and distribution of food, grains, and sweets to the needy.
• Tamil Nadu: Families perform Dhanalakshmi Pooja, worshiping Goddess Lakshmi and creating rangoli. Donations focus on feeding the poor and providing clothing and essentials to the underprivileged.

Donations That Transform Lives: Supporting Narayan Seva Sansthan

Across India, Dhanteras is seen as an opportunity not only to welcome wealth but also to spread joy through acts of charity. A significant way to give back is by supporting organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan, which works towards empowering differently-abled and underprivileged individuals.

By donating to Dhanteras, you can help provide life-changing support, such as medical care, artificial limbs, and rehabilitation for those in need.

Supporting causes like these not only brings spiritual blessings but also contributes to creating a more inclusive society. Donations made to Narayan Seva Sansthan on Dhanteras can bring hope and transformation to countless lives, ensuring that the festival’s spirit of generosity is shared with everyone.

Let us embrace the true essence of Dhanteras by sharing our blessings with others and making a positive difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the significance of Dhanteras?

A: Dhanteras honors Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of health, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of riches. It is a day to invite prosperity and well-being into one’s life through puja, purchases, and acts of charity.

Q: When is Dhanteras in 2024?

A: Dhanteras will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. The auspicious time for puja is from 6:52 PM to 8:30 PM.

Q: What types of donations are encouraged on Dhanteras?

A: Donations of food, clothes, grains, and financial support are highly encouraged. Contributing to organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan, which supports differently-abled and underprivileged individuals, is an impactful way to give back.

Q: How can I participate in charity on Dhanteras?

A: You can donate money, food, clothes, or other essentials to the needy or contribute to reputable charitable organizations such as Narayan Seva Sansthan. Volunteering your time or resources is also a great way to make a difference.

Q: What are the key rituals performed on Dhanteras?

A: Key rituals include cleaning homes, lighting diyas, drawing rangoli, offering prayers to Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi, and purchasing gold, silver, or utensils for good luck.