Dhanteras marks the beginning of the 5-day festival of Diwali. Markets across the country are flooded with people on this day as they head out to buy new gold or silver jewellery, utensils, vehicles, and electronic items. This is mainly because buying new things, especially gold, is considered auspicious on Dhanteras but have you ever wondered why? Scroll on to find out the reason and also to know about some of the most famous gold markets in India!
Why Is It Considered Auspicious To Buy Gold On Dhanteras?
Celebrated on the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha, Dhanteras is considered one of the most auspicious days to buy gold. Also known as Dhanatrayodashi, it is believed that buying gold on this day brings luck, prosperity, and abundance in life. Gold is also considered to be an embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth in Hinduism. So, people believe that buying gold jewellery invites the goddess into their lives.
The significance of buying gold on Dhanteras can also be linked to the tale of King Hima’s son. Legend has it that, according to a prophecy, King Hima’s 16-year-old son would die from a snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. When he got married, his devoted wife decided to turn her husband’s fate around. She ensured that her husband didn’t sleep on the 4th day of their marriage, lit numerous lamps, and piled all of her gold and silver ornaments at their room’s entrance.
It is believed that Lord Yama, in the form of a serpent, was nearly blinded by the dazzling light of diyas and gold as he tried to enter the room. Due to this, he was unable to bite the young man at the designated time and therefore, his wife was able to save his life. This is believed to be another reason why people buy gold and light up diya on the day of Dhanteras.
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Best Gold Markets To Explore In India
1. Zaveri Bazaar, Mumbai, Maharashtra
One of the biggest gold jewellery markets in India, Zaveri Bazaar is located in the Bhuleshwar neighbourhood of Mumbai. You will find hundreds of jewellery shops in the narrow lanes of this market and among them, some of the most notable ones are Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri, Dhirajlal Bhimji Zaveri, and UTZ. Whether you are looking for traditional Indian patterns or modern designs, this Dhanteras, Zaveri Bazaar will not disappoint you.
2. Chandni Chowk, Delhi
We know that Chandni Chowk is the ultimate shopping hub in Delhi but did you know that this market is also a delight for gold jewellery lovers? The narrow passages of this old market house some of the best jewellery stores in the city. You can shop for jewellery with intricate designs in precious metals and stones here. Some of the best stores are P.P. Jewellers, Malabar Gold and Diamonds, and Shri Ram Hari Ram Jewellers.
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3. Johari Bazaar, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur is renowned for its stunning jewellery, especially the jadau work. If you’re looking for some of the best shops for gold jewellery shopping, then C-Scheme and MI Road have a few good options. However, the iconic Johari Bazaar remains the crowd favourite. Whether you’re looking for intricate Meenakari jewellery or more contemporary styles, you can get them all at this market.
4. BB Ganguly Street, Kolkata, West Bengal
BB Ganguly Street, also known as Bepin Behari Ganguly Street or Bow Bazar Street, is home to some of the best gold jewellery stores in Kolkata. This market is just where you need to be for all your gold shopping this Dhanteras. You can visit stores like Basak Guinea Mansion, PK Jewellers, Dutta Guinea Palace, or PC Chandra & Sons and shop to your heart’s content.
5. Beypore Market, Kozhikode, Kerala
Gold has immense cultural and traditional significance in Kerala and Kozhikode is considered to be a hub for gold in the state. One of the best places to shop for gold jewellery in the city is Beypore Market. The vibrant marketplace is home to many jewellery stores and establishments and you can shop for stunning bangles, neckpieces, and earrings in intricate designs here.
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6. Jewellery Bazaar, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Also known as South Avani Moola Street, Madurai’s Jewellery Bazaar is one of the biggest jewellery markets in Tamil Nadu. Reportedly, around 5,000 small and big showrooms sell gold jewellery in this famous market. You can find 4th and even 5th generations of goldsmiths running businesses in this bazaar as they try to preserve the rich heritage of their families.
7. Main Bazar, Proddatur, Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh’s Proddatur city is famous for its gold and cotton industries. It is often called the ‘City of Gold’ because of the large-scale gold business and showrooms here. The best place to buy gold in the city is on the Main Bazaar street. There are many small and big showrooms and stores lined up here that are perfect for all your Dhanteras shopping needs.
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We hope this information was helpful for your Diwali shopping!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)