Dhanteras usually means one thing for many households: bringing home something new. From gold and silver jewellery to utensils and even vehicles, people consider it an auspicious day to make purchases ahead of Diwali. Markets are busy, shopping lists are ready and prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity. But there is another important reason why this festival is celebrated, and it has less to do with money and more to do with health.
Who Is Lord Dhanvantari And Why Is He Worshipped On Dhanteras?
According to The Economic Times, Dhanteras is observed as Dhanvantari Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, who is regarded as the divine physician and the god of Ayurveda. In Hindu tradition, he is associated with healing, medicinal knowledge, longevity and the preservation of life. His worship on this day serves as a reminder that good health is just as valuable as material wealth.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the cosmic ocean during Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean of milk by the Devas and Asuras. The two groups undertook the churning in search of amrita, or the nectar of immortality.
As the churning continued, several divine objects and beings emerged from the ocean. Lord Dhanvantari appeared carrying a pot of amrita, which is believed to symbolise immortality, good health and the preservation of life.
This is why he is worshipped on Dhanteras, which falls on the Trayodashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. The day is also known as Dhanvantari Jayanti, marking his appearance.
Lord Dhanvantari is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is revered as the divine source of Ayurveda. He is often depicted holding a pot of nectar, a conch, a discus and medicinal herbs or other healing symbols. These are associated with his role as the provider of medical knowledge and healing.
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What Is The Connection Between Dhanteras And Ayurveda?
The connection between Lord Dhanvantari and Ayurveda is one of the lesser-known aspects of the festival. Ayurveda is India’s traditional system of medicine, with an emphasis on health, lifestyle, prevention and overall well-being.
In Ayurvedic tradition, Lord Dhanvantari is regarded as the divine inspiration behind this knowledge. He is also revered by Ayurvedic practitioners and those who study traditional medicine.
His significance is not limited to religious worship. Dhanvantari Jayanti is also observed as Ayurveda Day in India, an occasion to recognise the country’s traditional medical heritage and create awareness about Ayurveda.
The celebration brings attention to the importance of looking after one’s health, understanding the value of medicinal knowledge and making well-being a part of everyday life.
Goddess Lakshmi And Lord Dhanvantari Both Are Worshipped
There is an interesting reason why the two deities are worshipped on the same occasion. While Goddess Lakshmi is associated with wealth, abundance and prosperity, Lord Dhanvantari represents health, healing and longevity.
Dhanteras brings these two ideas together. People pray to Goddess Lakshmi for financial stability and prosperity, while prayers to Lord Dhanvantari are offered for good health and the well-being of family members.
After all, wealth alone cannot guarantee a happy life if good health is missing. The festival’s association with both deities reflects the belief that prosperity should also include physical well-being and a healthy life.
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As families prepare to welcome prosperity into their homes this Dhanteras, the worship of Lord Dhanvantari offers another thought to take into the festive season: good health is perhaps one of the most valuable things one can wish for.
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FAQs
Why is Lord Dhanvantari worshipped on Dhanteras?
Lord Dhanvantari is worshipped as the god of Ayurveda and medicine, and devotees seek his blessings for good health, healing and longevity.
What is the connection between Dhanteras and Ayurveda?
Lord Dhanvantari is considered the divine source of Ayurveda, India's traditional system of medicine, making the festival significant for Ayurvedic practitioners.
Why is Dhanteras associated with both health and wealth?
Goddess Lakshmi represents wealth and prosperity, while Lord Dhanvantari represents health and healing. Their worship reflects the importance of both in life.
