Who Is Dhanvantari And Why Dhanteras Celebrated?
The Legend of Dhanvantari and the Churning of the Ocean:
1. The Churning of the Ocean:
Long ago, the devas (gods) and the asuras (demons) collaborated to churn the ocean, seeking the divine nectar of immortality, known as amrita. They used Mount Mandara as the churning rod and Vasuki, the serpent king, as the churning rope. The churning of the ocean symbolizes the cosmic struggle between positive and negative forces, good and evil, and the eternal quest for immortality and spiritual enlightenment.
2. Emergence of Dhanvantari:
During the churning, various divine beings and precious items emerged from the ocean. One of the significant entities that emerged was Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, carrying a pot of amrita in his hands. Dhanvantari is depicted as a handsome and radiant deity, holding a leech and a pot of nectar. His appearance brought hope to the gods, signifying the arrival of health, well-being, and prosperity.
3. Significance of Dhanteras:
Dhanteras falls on the 13th day of the lunar fortnight during the month of Ashwin. It is believed to be the day when Dhanvantari emerged with the pot of nectar. The term “Dhanteras” is derived from “Dhan,” meaning wealth, and “Teras,” meaning the 13th day. People celebrate Dhanteras as the day of Dhanvantari’s birth.
Auspicious Beginning of Dhanteras:
Dhanteras is considered an extremely auspicious day in Hindu culture. It is believed that any new venture or investment made on this day is bound to bring prosperity and good fortune.
Health and Well-being: Worshipping Lord Dhanvantari on Dhanteras is thought to bring healing energy and good health. Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners often conduct special ceremonies on this day, honoring Dhanvantari as the original source of Ayurveda.
Significans of Dhanteras:
Wealth and Abundance: The word ‘Dhan’ in Dhanteras signifies wealth. Buying precious metals or items on this day is believed to enhance wealth and ensure financial stability throughout the year.
Protection from Evil: Lighting lamps and diyas on Dhanteras is believed to ward off negative energies and evil spirits. It symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and the welcoming of light and positivity into the home.
Fulfillment of Desires: Devotees believe that sincere prayers and offerings made on Dhanteras can fulfill their material and spiritual desires. It is a day of expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for a prosperous future.
4. Worship and Rituals:
On Dhanteras, devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, seeking his blessings for good health and well-being. Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is also worshipped on this day. Homes and businesses are cleaned and decorated to welcome the goddess. Lamps are lit, and colorful rangoli designs adorn the entrances. Devotees offer prayers, sweets, fruits, and flowers to seek the divine blessings of Dhanvantari and Lakshmi.
5. Buying Precious Items:
It is a common tradition to buy new items, especially gold, silver, or utensils, on Dhanteras. This act is believed to invite wealth and prosperity into the household. The belief is that purchasing these items on Dhanteras brings good fortune and ensures the continuous flow of wealth.
6. Festive Beginning of Diwali:
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festival. It sets the festive tone and creates an atmosphere of joy and celebration in homes and communities. The blessings sought on Dhanteras are believed to pave the way for a prosperous and happy Diwali, which follows two days later.
In essence, Dhanteras symbolizes the victory of good over evil, the arrival of health and prosperity, and the celebration of life’s abundance. Devotees observe this day with reverence and enthusiasm, honoring the divine blessings of Dhanvantari and Lakshmi.
Dhanteras Prayer:
Here is a simple and heartfelt prayer that you can offer on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras or any other time you seek blessings for prosperity and well-being:
“ॐ धन्यदायै नमः।
आपकी आशीर्वाद से हमें समृद्धि, स्वास्थ्य और संपन्नता की प्राप्ति हो।
आप हमें ताजगी, ऊर्जा और संतुलन दें।
हमें समय समय पर आपकी प्रेरणा मिले, ताकि हम अपने जीवन में सच्चे धन की प्राप्ति कर सकें।
आपकी कृपा से हमें उच्च आदर्शों और नेतृत्व की प्राप्ति हो।
धन्यवाद करता हूँ आपकी अनंत कृपा के लिए।
आपके चरणों में नमन करता हूँ। आमीन।”
(Translation:
“Om Dhanyadayai Namah.
With your blessings, may we attain prosperity, health, and abundance.
Grant us freshness, energy, and balance.
Inspire us from time to time so that we can achieve true wealth in our lives.
May we receive your guidance and leadership.
I am grateful for your infinite grace.
I bow to your divine feet. Amen.”)
Dhanteras Mantra:
here is a powerful Dhanteras mantra that you can chant for blessings of wealth, prosperity, and abundance:
**”ॐ धनं धान्यं पुष्टिं दधातु”**
(Transliteration: “Om Dhanam Dhanyam Pushtim Dadhatu”)
Meaning:
“May the divine bestow wealth, grains, and nourishment upon us.”
Chanting this mantra with devotion and focus can invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and bring prosperity into your life. Remember to chant this mantra with a pure heart and positive intentions.