The day of “Dhanvantari Triodas” marks the joyous beginning of the five-day festival of Diwali. It is also known as “Dhantriyodashi” or simply “Dhanteras” at several places. The day is dedicated to the birth of Hindu God Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi.
Dhanvantari is the Vaidya or Doctor of the Gods in the Hindu religion. Hindu mythology states that He emerged from the ocean, at the time of Samudra manthan (churning of the ocean) with Amrita– the nectar of immortality. He is believed to have the knowledge and cure of every ailment and disease. He is the symbol of health, vitality and immortality and signifies that health is truly the elixir of life. A lamp pointing toward North by North-East (the direction in which he originated) is lit at the doorstep of the house today, to welcome Lord Dhanvantari for health and happiness in life.
Since Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean just like Lakshmi, they are related as brother and sister. This association of the two deities signifies the importance of health and fitness as a great fortune.
Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped in the evenings when Diyas are lit to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. People pay tribute to the deity of wealth with the prayers of prosperity and successful journey of lives and consider it propitious to purchase gold or silver articles or at least one or two new utensils. People decorate their shops, work place or items symbolizing their source of livelihood and prosperity. Traders and merchants stock up and pray for the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, so their business flourishes throughout the year.
Jewellers are the people who celebrate the festival in most flamboyant and noteworthy style. Decorations and renovations of homes and business entities are on the cards. Women observe the occasion wearing new and expensive ornaments. They decorate their homes with stylish rangolis and welcome the deity with small footprints of the Goddess. People light diyas and lamps to shed the darkness of poverty. Neighbors and relatives get together and share sweets.
