India

Buying a New Broom on Dhanteras Symbolises Sweeping Away Misfortune

By Swati Gandhi

Every year on Dhanteras, many Indians visit jewellery stores to buy gold, silver and other valuables, while others head to a local shop or a vendor near the jewellery store to purchase a broom (jhaadu). The practice is rooted in the belief that bringing a new broom home on the occasion invites Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings, drives away negative energy and prepares the house for prosperity. A new broom is seen as a symbol of sweeping away negativity and past misfortunes, and is thought to help make the home ready to welcome Lakshmi, who is associated with abundance, good fortune, prosperity and wealth. Traditional beliefs say Lakshmi stays in clean, well‑maintained homes; since a broom removes dust and dirt, it is linked to preparing the home for her blessings. The broom is also associated with Lakshmi’s elder sister, Alakshmi (Jyeshtha), who is linked to misfortune and poverty. Cleaning the house with a broom is therefore seen as a way of driving away Alakshmi and making room for Lakshmi and prosperity, The Times of India reported. Dhanteras 2026 falls on Friday, November 6. Devotees can buy a broom after Trayodashi begins, around 10:30 am, and traditionally bring it home before the evening puja. Before using the new broom to sweep away negativity, one is advised to offer prayers to it. The tradition is affordable, with a broom costing around ₹50 or ₹100, making it accessible to people across income groups. This year, Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the onset of the five‑day Diwali celebrations and is considered an auspicious occasion for offering prayers for health, prosperity and wealth.