Deepawali, the festival of lights, is actually a sequence of five important celebrations. The two festivals that mark the onset of Deepawali are Dhanteras and Narak Chaturdashi, while Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj mark the conclusion of the festive spirit. Thus, Dhanteras is the first in a sequence of five festivals. 

Good health along with prosperity and well-being are prayed for in Dhanteras. Deepawali stands out for the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi is fickle-minded and inconsistent in temperament and, hence, does not stay in one place for a long duration. So, on Dhanteras, the sthayi bhava or stable state of Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped to ensure permanence in wealth and prosperity.

However, mere wealth cannot beget happiness. It is a healthy body that leads to prosperity all around. Before praying for prosperity and abundance on Deepawali, Dhanteras underlines the importance of worship for good health and that one should not forget health while earning money.

It is believed that Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi appeared during the churning of the ocean. That is why Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped on Dhanteras. It is considered auspicious to buy gold, silver, brass, copper and utensils on the day of Dhanteras.

In the absence of health, life becomes dry and desolate because wealth can be enjoyed only by those who are healthy.

The festival of Dhanteras is a form of resolution that one should strive to maintain and improve one’s physical, mental, emotional, financial and spiritual health.  On this day one resolves to be healthy and avoid indulging in activities that can lead to ill-health.

Also, watch: Dhanteras, the festival of health over wealth.