Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Kartik, typically falling in October or November. It marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival, a time of prosperity, lights, and celebration. While the festival is primarily associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, there is one another God that is associated with Dhanteras. In this article we will tell you Which Deity Is Worshipped On Dhanteras along with Goddess Lakshmi.
Which Deity Is Worshipped On Dhanteras?
Lord Dhanvantari, a prominent figure in Hindu mythology, is celebrated as the divine physician and the pioneer of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. The legend surrounding Dhanvantari is found in several Hindu scriptures, most notably in the Puranas. According to these texts, Dhanvantari emerged from the cosmic ocean during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), bearing a pot of Amrita, the nectar of immortality, in one hand and the sacred scriptures of Ayurveda in the other. His divine appearance brought hope and healing to the gods, who had been suffering from a grave illness.
It is said that Lord Dhanvantari’s arrival marked the dawn of a new era in healthcare and well-being, making him a revered deity for those seeking good health, longevity, and the blessings of well-being. Hence, Dhanteras, the day named after him, is devoted to the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, in addition to the veneration of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity.
Dhanvantari in Modern Healthcare
In contemporary times, the worship of Lord Dhanvantari remains significant not only in religious contexts but also in the realm of healthcare. The emblem of Lord Dhanvantari is often associated with hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies, symbolizing the pursuit of health and healing. Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine attributed to Lord Dhanvantari, continues to be a revered tradition, offering holistic remedies and wellness practices.
Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali, is a celebration of the divine physician, Lord Dhanvantari. While Goddess Lakshmi is undoubtedly the central figure during this festive season, it is essential to recognize the significance of Lord Dhanvantari, who represents health, healing, and the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda. This day serves as a reminder that wealth and prosperity are incomplete without good health and well-being, making Lord Dhanvantari’s blessings an integral part of the Diwali celebrations. As we light the lamps and bring home new utensils on Dhanteras, we also acknowledge the importance of inner and outer wellness, making it a festival of both material and spiritual significance.
