Get an insight into the rules and significance of lighting diyas on Dhanteras, the first day of the five day long Diwali festival. Learn about the auspicious time for puja, as well as the specific placement for the 13 diyas, according to Jyotish and Vastu expert Rakesh Chaturvedi. Discover how these diyas can bring blessings, protection and good fortune to your home and family.
Background
Dhanteras, also known as Dhan Trayodashi, marks the commencement of the five-day long Diwali festival. It falls on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Kartik.
According to Hindu mythology, Dhanteras is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods. On this day, devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, seeking his blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity.
Significance of Lighting Diyas on Dhanteras
One of the key rituals of Dhanteras is the lighting of thirteen diyas (earthen lamps) in specific locations around the home. This ritual is believed to appease Lord Dhanvantari, bring blessings, and protect the family from evil spirits.
Auspicious Time for Puja
The most auspicious time for performing Dhanteras Puja is during Pradosh Kaal, which extends from sunset to an hour and a half after sunset.
Placement of Diyas According to Vastu and Jyotish
1st Diya: Place the first diya in the puja room, where the deity idols are kept.
2nd Diya: Place the second diya at the entrance of the house, facing outwards.
3rd-10th Diyas: Place the third through tenth diyas in a row on either side of the main door, facing outwards.
11th Diya: Place the eleventh diya on the roof of the house.
12th Diya: Place the twelfth diya in the courtyard or open space in front of the house.
13th Diya: Place the thirteenth diya in a corner of the kitchen, closer to the stove.
Benefits of Lighting Thirteen Diyas
Top 5 FAQs Related to Dhanteras
1. What is the significance of thirteen diyas on Dhanteras? A: The thirteen diyas represent Lord Dhanvantari and his twelve divine helpers, who bring blessings of health, wealth, and prosperity.
2. What are the benefits of lighting diyas on Dhanteras? A: Lighting thirteen diyas on Dhanteras brings blessings, protects from evil, and enhances positive energy.
3. What is the auspicious time for performing Dhanteras Puja? A: The most auspicious time is Pradosh Kaal, which extends from sunset to an hour and a half after sunset.
4. Where should the diyas be placed according to Vastu? A: Diyas should be placed in specific locations around the home, including the puja room, entrance, roof, courtyard, and kitchen.
5. What is the importance of Lord Dhanvantari in Dhanteras? A: Lord Dhanvantari is the physician of the gods, and he is worshipped on Dhanteras for his blessings on health and well-being.
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