Bhubaneswar, Nov 10: Dhanteras, also known as 'Dhanatrayodashi', is the first day that marks the festival of Diwali. It is celebrated on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu calendar month of Ashvin or Kartika.

This day is also celebrated as the birth anniversary of the father of Ayurveda – Dhanwantari. It is believed that bringing some new things to the house within a selected good time on this day will increase wealth. Moreover, the financial condition will remain good throughout the year.

Here's a list of certain dos and don'ts to follow in order to invite wealth and prosperity into your life.

Do's:

1. It is important to perform Lakshmi puja on the day of Dhanteras during Pradosh Kaal, the two hours immediately following sunset. People should also clean their house to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.

2. It is advised to buy brooms as they are said to be a symbol of Goddess Laxmi. Buying gold, silver coins as well as idols of Lakshmi and Ganesha is considered auspicious on this day.

3. Worshipping and feeding cows is also recommended on the day of Dhanteras.

4.  The mantras of Goddess Laxmi must be recited on this day. People must help the sick and those in need and provide them with medicines as Lord Dhanvantri is worshipped on Dhanteras, who is considered the god of medicine.

5. Buying salt on Dhanteras is considered lucky. This salt can be used on the day of Diwali to drive out all the bad energies during cleaning. It can be used in preparing meals as well.

Don'ts:

1. People shouldn't buy sharp objects like knives, forks, scissors, etc. on this auspicious day.

2. People should refrain from selling anything today, as it is customary to buy new things on this auspicious day.

3. Avoid eating non-vegetarian food or tamsik food such as eggs, onions and garlic. For festivals, prepare only satvik food.

4. This day is not considered auspicious for borrowing money, so avoid it.
 

Read: Gold Prices See A Rise of Rs 300 On Dhanteras