26 Oct : With just two days left for Diwali, celebrations have already begun with people flocking the markets to buy gold and silver jewelry or utensils on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras.
Dhanteras which is also known as Dhantrayodashi that takes place two days before the much celebrated festival of Hindus, Diwali, is celebrated to honour Dhanavantri, the physician of gods and an incarnation of God Vishnu.
On this day, people seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi who is the goddess of wealth. Lakshmi puja is performed during the evening and the homes are illuminated with beautiful diyas and candles.
In Dhanteras, ‘Dhan’ refers to wealth and ‘teras’ refers to the thirteenth day on which this occasion falls. Purchasing of utensils, gold and silver is extremely popular on Dhanteras as it is believed to be a sign of good luck. Presents and sweets are exchanged between relatives and friends.
This year organised retailers are hoping that more customers will come to their stores and lift sales, which have been slack in the past few months.