Dhanteras is a Hindu festival that marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration. On Dhanteras, people worship Lord Dhanvantari, who is considered the god of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
Here’s a general guide on how to perform Dhanteras Puja:
Items needed:
- Idol or image of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi
- Puja Thali
- Flowers
- Incense sticks
- Diya (oil lamp) or candles
- Camphor
- Betel leaves and nuts
- Akshat (rice grains)
- Sweets and fruits for offerings
- Coconut
- Silver or gold coins (optional)
Procedure:
- Clean the House:
- Clean your house and decorate it with rangoli, flowers, and lights.
- Puja Area Setup:
- Create a small puja area where you can place the idols or images of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi.
- Idol/Photo Placement:
- Place the idols or images of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi on a clean cloth or platform.
- Ganesh Pujan:
- Begin the puja by invoking Lord Ganesha. Offer flowers, incense, and sweets to Lord Ganesha.
- Dhanvantari Pujan:
- Perform the puja of Lord Dhanvantari by offering flowers, incense, and chanting his mantras.
- Lakshmi Pujan:
- Invoke Goddess Lakshmi by chanting her mantras and offering flowers, incense, and sweets.
- Akshat and Betel Leaves:
- Sprinkle akshat (rice grains) on the idols or images. Offer betel leaves and nuts to the deities.
- Light the Diya:
- Light the diya or candles and incense sticks. Keep them in front of the deities.
- Offerings:
- Offer sweets, fruits, and coconut to Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi.
- Aarti:
- Perform the aarti for both Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi. Sing or recite the Dhanteras aarti.
- Prayers:
- Offer your prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi for good health and prosperity.
- Optional Silver/Gold Coin Puja:
- Some people choose to perform puja for silver or gold coins. If you have these, you can place them in the puja thali and offer your prayers.
- Distribution of Prasad:
- Distribute the prasad (blessed offerings) to family members and guests.
- Dhanteras Puja Timing:
- It is believed that performing the puja during the Pradosh Kaal (the period just after sunset) is auspicious.
Remember that while the steps above provide a general guideline, variations may exist based on regional customs and traditions. If you have specific rituals or practices in your family or community, it’s advisable to follow those. Additionally, if you’re unfamiliar with the mantras, you can listen to recordings or seek guidance from someone experienced in performing the Dhanteras Puja.
