According to the mythology, Lord Dhanvantari appeared on the day of Dhanteras. In 2023, Dhanteras will be celebrated on 11 November on the Kartik Krishna Paksha. It is believed that Lord Dhanvantari the father of Ayurveda appeared on the day of Dhanteras only carrying a pot of amrita in his hand during the churning of the sea. The lamps are lighted on the main entrance and garden of the house.
Apart from Dev Dhanvantri, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber are worshipped on this day. Yam Dev is also offered Deep Dan on this day. it is believed, worshipping Yam Dev on this day cancel any premature death. After worshipping Yam Dev, a lamp should be lit on the entrance door facing the south direction for the whole night.
Purchasing new gifts, coins, utensil and jewellery is considered auspicious. Puja is performed in the auspicious time and seven cereals are worshipped. seven cereals include wheat, Urad, Moong, gram, barley and Masoor. Golden flowers are used while worshipping Bhagwati. This day, white sweets are used in form of prasad. Worshipping of goddess Lakshmi is considered favorable on this day.
Dhantrayodashi – Kuber Puja
Lord Kuber is worshipped on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras. People should worship the lord on this day as it is considered to very auspicious and fruitful. Establishing Kuber yantra brings prosperity and wealth. Borrowing or lending money should be avoided.
Historical Significance of Dhanvantari Tryodashi
There is a very popular ancient tale related to Dhantrayodashi according to which Lord Dhanvantari appeared holding a pot of amrit and Ayurveda shastra in the other. He was known as the father of Ayurveda and was the doctor of gods in all the three worlds
Significance of Dhanvantari Trayodashi
On Dhanteras the houses are cleaned and rangoli is made at the entrance of the house. In the evening the candles are lighted at different areas of the house,. People light a candle outside their home and pray Lord Yamraj for their long life. Lord Yam is worshipped to get relief from untimely death. The rituals to light lamps in the evening is performed to signify victory of good over evil and to enlighten the life with a new bright beginning.
Auspicious time to buy things on Dhantrayodashi
Purchasing new items like utensils, jewellery etc is considered to be auspicious on his day. It is believed that purchase of silver, gold etc brings wealth and happiness in the house. By the auspiciousness of Shubh Muhurat, individual gets favorable health, wealth and longevity. Worshipping is Amrit Muhurat is considered to be most favorable.
At some places the Ayurveda scriptures are also worshipped. This is an important day for ayurvedic practitioners. Ayurvedic schools, hospitals etc perform special pujas in devotion of Lord Dhanvantari. people who are mentally or physically sick should worship him on this day with full faith and dedication.