Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festivities, celebrated by Hindus worldwide as a day dedicated to wealth, prosperity, and good health. This year, Dhanteras falls on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, with the Dhanteras Puja Muhurat set in Melbourne from 09:14 PM to 09:56 PM, a span of 42 minutes that offers an auspicious window to perform rituals.
Dhanteras Puja Muhurat in Melbourne
Timing is crucial in the Dhanteras Puja to ensure maximum blessings. Observing it during the specified Muhurat allows devotees to invoke wealth and protection for the upcoming year. Here are the key timings for Melbourne:
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- Dhanteras Puja Muhurat: 09:14 PM to 09:56 PM (Duration: 42 mins)
- Pradosh Kaal: 07:52 PM to 09:56 PM
- Vrishabha Kaal: 09:14 PM to 11:38 PM
- Trayodashi Tithi: Begins at 04:01 PM on October 29, Ends at 06:45 PM on October 30
The Significance and History of Dhanteras
Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, has deep historical and cultural roots in Hinduism. It is observed on the 13th lunar day of Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Kartik. This day is associated with the legend of Dhanvantari, the divine physician and the god of Ayurveda, who emerged from the ocean carrying a pot of amrit (elixir of immortality) during the churning of the ocean, or Samudra Manthan.
In Hindu culture, Dhanteras is also linked to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that performing rituals on Dhanteras brings health and wealth to the household and ensures prosperity for the year ahead. People worship Lakshmi and Dhanvantari on this day, symbolizing both material and spiritual well-being.
How People Celebrate Dhanteras
Dhanteras is celebrated with joy and devotion, with rituals focusing on health, prosperity, and long life.
- Buying Gold, Silver, and Utensils
– One of the most well-known traditions on Dhanteras is buying items made of precious metals like gold and silver. This is believed to bring luck and attract wealth. In addition to jewelry, many people also buy new utensils or household items, symbolizing prosperity and abundance in the home.
- Dhanteras Puja Rituals
– During the Muhurat, families gather to perform the Dhanteras Puja, which typically includes lighting lamps, offering flowers, and placing sweets in front of idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari. The lamps are kept lit throughout the night to ward off any negative energy and invite positive influences into the home.
- Yama Deepam
– On Dhanteras evening, it is customary to light a special oil lamp known as the Yama Deepam outside the home, specifically facing south. This is done to appease Lord Yama, the god of death, and is believed to protect family members from untimely death and misfortunes. The tradition of Yama Deepam reflects the belief in longevity and protection from negative energies.
- Home Decoration
– Homes are thoroughly cleaned, and entrances are adorned with rangolis (decorative patterns made with colored powders) and marigold flowers. Doors and windows are decorated with mango leaves and marigold garlands, symbolizing purity and readiness to welcome the Goddess of Wealth.
- Prayers and Offerings
– Families set up a puja area with idols or pictures of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi. Offerings typically include sweets, fruits, flowers, and incense. Devotees recite prayers and chants, invoking blessings for health and prosperity. Traditional sweets are also prepared and shared with family members and guests.
Cultural Significance of Dhanteras in Diwali Festivities
As the first day of the Diwali celebrations, Dhanteras sets the stage for the days to come, emphasizing the themes of wealth, health, and the triumph of light over darkness. It is a time for people to come together in gratitude for what they have and to seek blessings for the future. For many Hindu families, especially in Melbourne, Dhanteras is a moment to strengthen cultural connections and celebrate the values of health and prosperity as a community.
Dhanteras traditions, from purchasing precious metals to lighting the Yama Deepam, underscore the timeless values of Hinduism that emphasize prosperity, well-being, and divine protection. In the hustle and bustle of city life, Dhanteras offers a chance for families in Melbourne to pause, reflect, and welcome the abundance and blessings of the festive season.
Deepavali Lagna Puja on Friday, November 1, 2024
Vrishchika Lagna Muhurat (morning) – 07:02 AM to 08:53 AM
Duration – 01 Hour 50 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Muhurat (afternoon) – 01:38 PM to 04:06 PM
Duration – 02 Hours 28 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Muhurat (evening) – 09:03 PM to 11:26 PM
Duration – 02 Hours 24 Mins
Amavasya Tithi Begins – 09:22 PM on Oct 31, 2024
Amavasya Tithi Ends – 11:46 PM on Nov 01, 2024
Muhurat Time table taken from drikpanchang