Dhanteras: Astrological Remedies and Traditions – The festival of Dhanteras is being celebrated across the country today, marking the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival. The sequence of this grand celebration includes Dhanteras on the first day, Chhoti Diwali on the second, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on the third, Govardhan Puja on the fourth, and Bhai Dooj on the fifth day. Dhanteras—also known as Dhanvantari Trayodashi—symbolizes prosperity, good health, and happiness. It is observed annually on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the waning moon phase (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Kartik. It is believed that purchases made and prayers offered during the auspicious timings (muhurta) on this day ensure continued abundance and prosperity in the household throughout the year. However, one should exercise caution while shopping to avoid any complications. Shipra Sachdeva, a renowned astrologer from Prayagraj, has provided detailed guidance on what to do and what to avoid on Dhanteras.

Astrologer Shipra Sachdeva states that shopping can begin as early as the morning of Dhanteras. This year, the entire day offers an auspicious window for making purchases; however, it is advised to avoid the period between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM. Apart from this, the rest of the day is considered highly favorable for shopping. She recommends bringing five specific items home on Dhanteras: a broom, salt, coriander seeds, turmeric, and any object made of metal. Each of these items holds both religious and astrological significance.

Shipra Sachdeva explains that a broom is considered a symbol of the planet Rahu. It helps remove negativity from the home and is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi. Purchasing a broom is believed to balance the influence of Rahu and foster positive growth within the household; therefore, it is highly recommended to bring one home on Dhanteras.

Salt is considered a symbol of the planet Shani (Saturn). It helps eliminate negativity and ensures that the household does not face a lack of anything. It is believed that purchasing salt on Dhanteras invites the benevolent gaze (auspicious blessings) of Shani. Coriander is considered a symbol of the planet Mercury (Budh) and Lord Ganesha. It fosters happiness, prosperity, abundance, and the development of wisdom within the home. When our intellect is clear and sound, all tasks in life are accomplished effectively. For this reason, purchasing coriander on Dhanteras is considered highly auspicious.

Turmeric is a symbol of the planet Jupiter (Guru) and is associated with Lord Vishnu. Keeping it in the home ensures an abundance of wealth and food grains, and helps in warding off illnesses. Therefore, one should certainly bring turmeric home on Dhanteras.

Shipra Sachdeva notes that while many other items may deteriorate over time, metals remain durable and do not perish. Consequently, it is advisable to purchase items made of gold, silver, copper, or brass to ensure that prosperity and blessings remain a constant part of one's life.

This evening, the auspicious time (*muhurta*) for worship begins at 6:02 PM and concludes at 7:58 PM; this is the ideal window for performing rituals. During this time, one should worship Lord Dhanvantari to seek the blessing of good health and relief from any long-standing ailments affecting members of the household.

On the day of Dhanteras, lighting the 'Yama Deepaka' (a lamp dedicated to Yama, the Lord of Death) holds special significance. To perform this, light a four-wick lamp in the evening and place it near the main entrance, facing towards the south. This practice invites positive energy into the home and welcomes the presence of Goddess Lakshmi.

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