Gold Jewelry
Come autumn with its lavish harvest and cool breezes, and for the people of India, its time to revel in various festivities. One of these festivals is the Dhanteras, also known as 'Dhantrayodashi' or 'Dhanvantari Triodasi' dedicated to the celebration of Goddess Laxmi. The festival, observed two days before Diwali is considered to herald the onset of the festival of lights. Hence, it can also be called Diwali eve. The festival usually comes every year in the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashwin (October / November).
The Dhanteras has special significance to the business community of India, as they pray to Laxmi, the goddess of wealth for good fortune and success in life. Amongst the business community the jewelers specially celebrate this festival in the most pompous manner in the gold market areas.
The festival is marked by colorful decorations and renovations in individual houses and business places to welcome Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Women make colorful rangolis, alpana or floor patterns with small footprints of the goddess to symbolize her entry into their houses and business establishments. Some people light diyas, or traditional lamps throughout the night to ward off evil spirits. Doors remain open and neighbors or communities get together to share sweets and tiny lamps.
For additional luck and wealth, people also purchase gold and silver articles, new jewelry, car, and homes during this festival. Jewelers' shops remain open late into the night and are crowded throughout the day. A few devouts even fix dates for marriages on this day.
The Dhanteras has special significance to the business community of India, as they pray to Laxmi, the goddess of wealth for good fortune and success in life. Amongst the business community the jewelers specially celebrate this festival in the most pompous manner in the gold market areas.
The festival is marked by colorful decorations and renovations in individual houses and business places to welcome Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Women make colorful rangolis, alpana or floor patterns with small footprints of the goddess to symbolize her entry into their houses and business establishments. Some people light diyas, or traditional lamps throughout the night to ward off evil spirits. Doors remain open and neighbors or communities get together to share sweets and tiny lamps.
For additional luck and wealth, people also purchase gold and silver articles, new jewelry, car, and homes during this festival. Jewelers' shops remain open late into the night and are crowded throughout the day. A few devouts even fix dates for marriages on this day.