In Hinduism, the festival of Dhanteras is considered a symbol of happiness, prosperity, and wealth. It marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. According to religious beliefs, worshipping Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kubera on Dhanteras holds special significance. It is believed that performing rituals with devotion and following specific practices can bring happiness and prosperity into the home, while also helping to resolve financial difficulties. Let us learn from Ujjain-based astrologer Anand Bhardwaj when Dhanteras will be celebrated this year and which practices are considered auspicious on this day.

According to the Vedic calendar, the *Kartik Krishna Trayodashi* Tithi (lunar day) this year will begin at 10:30 AM on November 6 and conclude at 10:47 AM on November 7. Based on the *Udayatithi* (the *tithi* prevailing at sunrise), *Kartik Krishna Trayodashi* falls on Saturday, November 7; however, the festival of Dhan Trayodashi—or Dhanteras—will be celebrated on Friday, November 6. Since Friday is a day dedicated to the special worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the observance of Dhanteras on this day further enhances its significance.

Light 13 lamps after sunset
According to religious traditions, one should light 13 lamps after sunset on the day of Dhanteras and place 13 *kaudis* (cowrie shells) near them. It is believed that placing these *kaudis* in a corner of the house at midnight helps alleviate financial troubles and ensures the continued blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Furthermore, to overcome financial constraints, one should worship Goddess Lakshmi with proper rituals daily from Dhanteras through Diwali. During this period, offering a pair of cloves (*laung*) to the Goddess and praying for happiness, prosperity, and an increase in wealth is considered highly auspicious.

Fill a conch shell with water and sprinkle it throughout your home.
If your tasks have been stalled for a long time or you are facing recurring obstacles in acquiring wealth, you can perform certain special remedies on the day of Dhanteras. According to religious beliefs, donating white items—such as sugar, *batashe* (sugar drops), *kheer* (rice pudding), and rice—on this day is considered auspicious. It is believed that this helps remove obstacles in one's life. Additionally, before and after the Dhanteras *puja* (worship), fill a *dakshinavarti* (right-spiraling) conch shell with water and sprinkle it throughout your home. It is believed that this invites Goddess Lakshmi and ensures that happiness and prosperity remain in the household.

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