Dhanteras, also celebrated as Dhantrayodashi, heralds the beginning of the grand Diwali festival and is a cornerstone of Hindu tradition, venerated for its immense auspiciousness. The day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the revered deity of wealth and abundance. It’s a prime occasion for purchasing gold, silver, utensils, and various other valuable items believed to enhance fortune and well-being.
However, alongside the joyous spirit of acquisition, Dhanteras is steeped in traditions that advise against certain actions. Specifically, giving away particular items on this day is considered unfavorable and could potentially lead to a decline in prosperity or the unwelcome arrival of negative energies. To ensure a home brimming with positive vibes and financial good fortune, here are four categories of items to avoid gifting or donating this Dhanteras:
**1. Say No to Gifting Money:** It is widely believed that giving away money, especially cash or coins, on Dhanteras can lead to financial losses. The essence of the day is to invite wealth into your life, and parting with money is seen as a direct contradiction to this principle. Instead of donating, focus your intentions on bringing prosperity home. For those wishing to practice charity, it is recommended to schedule donations for a day either preceding or following Dhanteras.
**2. Avoid Black as a Gifting Color:** Black is often associated with inauspiciousness and negativity, making it a color to avoid during festive periods like Dhanteras and Diwali. Gifting black apparel, accessories, or footwear is thought to create blockages in the flow of positive energy and could attract misfortune. Prioritize gifting items in colors that radiate positivity and prosperity, such as red, yellow, green, or gold.
**3. Refrain from Giving Oil or Ghee:** Oil and ghee are vital components of the auspicious rituals performed on Dhanteras and Diwali, symbolizing light and purity. Giving these away is thought to reduce the inner radiance and prosperity of the giver’s household. It’s best to keep these precious items for your own home’s sacred rituals to invoke and maintain divine blessings and wealth.
**4. Iron Items: A Traditional Taboo:** Offering iron items, whether they are utensils, tools, or decorative objects, is traditionally discouraged on Dhanteras. The metal is linked to the influence of Saturn (Shani), and it is believed that giving iron on this day can invite challenges and adversity. Dhanteras is best utilized for purchasing metals like gold, silver, and brass, which are universally recognized symbols of wealth and good fortune.
To enhance your Dhanteras 2025 experience, embrace the positive actions: purchase precious metals, perform the Yama Deepam ritual by lighting thirteen diyas, ensure your home is impeccably clean, offer heartfelt prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, and adorn your space with vibrant rangoli and flowers. By adhering to these guidelines, you invite a year of abundance and positivity.