As Dhanteras approaches, households across India prepare to welcome prosperity, good fortune and new beginnings through traditional purchases and rituals. Celebrated on November 6, 2026, Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the main Diwali festivities. From buying gold and silver to bringing home new utensils and preparing a Dhan Lakshmi Potli, the occasion is deeply rooted in beliefs surrounding wealth, health and abundance. But what should you actually buy on Dhanteras, which rituals hold significance, and are certain purchases considered inauspicious?
According to Anantikaa R Vig, Certified Tarot Reader, Astrologer, Numerologist, Chakra Healer and Vastu Consultant, the day offers an opportunity to invite positive energy and prosperity into the household through meaningful traditions and mindful observances.
Why Is Dhanteras Considered Auspicious?
Dhanteras is associated with the Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the cosmic ocean, from which Goddess Lakshmi is believed to have emerged. Lord Dhanvantari, the deity associated with Ayurveda, health and healing, is also worshipped on this day. Lord Kubera, regarded as the deity of wealth, is invoked for financial stability and abundance.
The festival, therefore, extends beyond purchasing precious metals or household items. It is also about seeking blessings for good health, financial well-being and prosperity for the family.
Dhanteras 2026: When Is the Auspicious Puja Muhurat?
Dhanteras will be observed on Friday, November 6, 2026. According to the Drik Panchang timings for New Delhi, the recommended Dhanteras puja muhurat is from 6:02 PM to 7:57 PM. The Pradosh Kaal will prevail from 5:32 PM to 8:09 PM. The Trayodashi Tithi begins at 10:30 AM on November 6 and ends at 10:47 AM on November 7.
The evening puja is traditionally performed during Pradosh Kaal, when devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kubera.
How to Prepare a Dhan Lakshmi Potli for Prosperity?
One of the traditional practices followed by some households is preparing a Dhan Lakshmi Potli, a small sacred bundle symbolising wealth and abundance. While it is not a compulsory ritual across all Hindu traditions, it can be included as part of the Dhanteras celebrations.
To prepare the potli, take a piece of red cloth and place a silver coin or ₹11, a little rice (akshat), sabut haldi (whole turmeric), whole coriander seeds, cowrie shells and Gomti Chakra inside it. Offer haldi and kumkum, and tie the cloth securely into a small bundle.
Before preparing it, clean the house and arrange the puja space. Worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, then place the potli in the puja area or near the place where money and valuables are kept. On Diwali, it can also be placed near the Lakshmi-Ganesha idols during the main Lakshmi Puja.
What Should You Buy on Dhanteras?
Purchasing something new on Dhanteras is among the most widely followed traditions. Gold and silver jewellery, coins, small silver utensils and Lakshmi-Ganesha coins are popular choices. Many families also purchase a new broom, which, according to folk beliefs, symbolises removing negativity and making space for prosperity.
New utensils and household essentials are also considered meaningful purchases, representing abundance and auspicious beginnings.
Is Buying Steel Utensils Inauspicious on Dhanteras?
A common question surrounding Dhanteras is whether purchasing steel, iron or other metal objects should be avoided. However, there is no universal religious prohibition against buying steel utensils on this day. While some families prefer avoiding iron objects, others consider steel utensils an appropriate purchase as part of the tradition of bringing home new vessels.
Similarly, avoiding knives, scissors, black-coloured objects or glass items is largely a matter of regional and household customs rather than a compulsory religious rule.
Ultimately, Dhanteras is about welcoming prosperity, health and positive beginnings. As Anantikaa R Vig highlights through these traditional observances, families can follow the customs meaningful to them while remembering that the spirit of the festival lies in devotion, gratitude and the intention to invite abundance into their homes.
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