India

Dhanteras 2026: Shopping Times, Traditions and What to Avoid

By Livemint

Dhanteras, also called Dhantrayodashi, begins the five‑day Diwali festival on Friday, November 6. The day is traditionally seen as an auspicious time to bring prosperity into the home by purchasing new items. According to Drik Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi starts at 10:30 AM on November 6 and ends at 10:47 AM on November 7.

Typical purchases include gold or silver coins, jewellery, and household utensils made of brass, copper, silver or steel. A new broom and whole coriander seeds are also common symbolic items. Gold and silver are linked to prosperity, while the festival is associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari, who represents health.

In New Delhi the recommended shopping window is 5:32 PM to 8:09 PM on November 6, and the puja muhurat is 6:02 PM to 7:57 PM. Timings differ by city, so local Panchang should be consulted.

When buying precious metals, check the purity, hallmark, weight and current rates. Ask for a detailed price breakdown, including making charges and taxes, and keep the invoice. Iron, sharp objects such as knives and scissors, glass and black items are considered inauspicious. Lending or borrowing money on Dhanteras is also generally discouraged.

Gold remains the preferred purchase, with coins stamped with Lakshmi and Ganesha, small bars and jewellery. Silver coins, idols and utensils are popular alternatives when gold prices are high. Always insist on BIS‑hallmarked gold and buy from trusted jewellers.

Buying new utensils is a long‑standing, budget‑friendly custom. Brass, copper and silver are traditional, though steel is widely accepted for everyday use. Families often fill new vessels with water or grain before bringing them indoors to symbolize a year of abundance.

A new broom (jhadu) symbolizes sweeping away misfortune, and whole coriander seeds (dhaniya) are offered during the puja and later planted to signify continuous growth.

Dhanteras is increasingly used for high‑value purchases such as vehicles, electronics, home appliances and real estate. While the day provides a festive reason to close a deal, financial prudence is essential: compare prices, scrutinise loan terms and avoid impulsive credit‑driven buys.

The essence of Dhanteras is to welcome prosperity, a sentiment that relies on faith rather than the price tag of the purchase.