Dhanteras: A Festival of Prosperity and Giving

 Dhanteras, a significant Hindu festival, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration. Derived from the Sanskrit words "Dhan" (wealth) and "Teras" (thirteenth), this day is devoted to honouring and invoking the blessings of the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. Celebrated across India, Dhanteras holds immense cultural and religious importance.

The Significance of Dhanteras 

Dhanteras signifies the importance of wealth and prosperity in one's life. It is believed that on this day, the purchase of gold, silver or utensils is auspicious, signifying the accumulation of wealth. People clean and decorate their homes, light oil lamps and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi to seek her blessings for financial well-being.

Celebrations Across India

Dhanteras is celebrated with regional nuances and customs in different states of India. In North India, people follow the tradition of purchasing new utensils and silver coins. In Maharashtra, families offer prayers to Lord Kuber, the treasurer of the Gods and keep their account books ready for the upcoming year. Down south, people light lamps and draw 'Rangoli' patterns at the entrance of their homes.

• In North India, Dhanteras is observed with great enthusiasm. The day typically begins with a thorough cleaning of homes and decorating them with colorful Rangoli designs and flower garlands. Families worship Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda, seeking blessings for good health. In the evening, people light oil lamps or diyas to invite wealth and prosperity. Buying new utensils, gold or silver items is a common tradition, signifying the acquisition of wealth and assets.
  
  
• In Maharashtra, Dhanteras is observed as "Vasu Baras" or "Govatsa Dwadashi." Cows and calves are worshipped as a symbol of prosperity and farmers express their gratitude for the cattle's role in their livelihoods. Families prepare a special meal made from freshly harvested grains and offer it to Lord Kuber, the treasurer of the Gods. This day is also an occasion for businesses to start their new financial year.
  
  
• In the southern states of India, Dhanteras is marked by the lighting of traditional oil lamps or "diyas," and creating intricate Kolam or Rangoli designs at the entrance of homes. Families offer prayers to Lord Yama, the God of death, to ward off untimely death and bring blessings. People exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones. Many also visit temples to seek the blessings of deities associated with prosperity, like Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi.
  
  
• In the western states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, Dhanteras holds special significance for business owners. The day is considered auspicious for opening new account books; many businesses celebrate it as their financial New Year. People also worship their account books and buy assets like gold and silver. In Gujarat, clay idols of the Goddess are created and worshipped with devotion.
  
  
• In Bengal, Dhanteras is celebrated as "Kali Chaudas" and is devoted to the worship of Goddess Kali. The day involves special prayers to the fierce form of the Goddess, seeking protection from evil forces and negative energies. It is also a time for people to wear new clothes and participate in cultural programmes and processions.
  
  
• In Punjab, Dhanteras is celebrated with enthusiasm and traditional fervour. People light lamps or diyas around their homes and offer prayers for prosperity and success. The celebrations often include community gatherings, where people exchange sweets and gifts. Farmers also show their gratitude to their cattle for their role in agriculture.
  
  
• In Tamil Nadu, Dhanteras is celebrated as "Dhanalakshmi Pooja." Families create colourful Rangoli designs and a special pooja is performed in the evening to invoke Goddess Lakshmi's blessings. Many households conduct traditional rituals and offer sweets and fruits to the deity.

While the customs and traditions may vary, the core essence of seeking blessings for wealth, prosperity and good fortune remains a unifying theme.

Dhanteras is not just about wealth accumulation but also about giving. It is believed that by sharing your prosperity, you invite more blessings from Goddess Lakshmi. Many people choose to donate on this day and one commendable way to do so is by contributing towards mid-day meals for underprivileged children.

Donating Mid-Day Meals (MDM)

One impactful way to make a difference on Dhanteras is by supporting initiatives that provide mid-day meals to children in need. These programs ensure that children receive nutritious food, which not only nourishes their bodies but also fuels their dreams and aspirations. Several organisations across India actively work towards this noble cause.

How to Contribute 

You can participate in this meaningful act of charity by donating to well-established organisations that run PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (MDM Programme). Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of underprivileged children, helping them receive education and nourishment simultaneously.

One such NGO that implements the government's PM POSHAN Abhiyaan is The Akshaya Patra Foundation. It is a charity that has been providing school meals to children since 2000. It has gained worldwide recognition for its work and has been feeding meals to over 2 million children coming from challenging socio-economic backgrounds. Let's make this festival better for the less fortunate; let's feed the people in need.

Dhanteras is a celebration of wealth, but it's also a reminder of the importance of giving back. As we buy gold, silver or utensils, let us not forget the joy that comes from helping others. 

This Dhanteras, let's spread the light of prosperity and kindness.