Dhanteras 2012: Toronto, Ontario

Dhanteras, from dhan (wealth) and teras (thirteenth), falls on Krishna Paksha Trayodashi -- Ashwin Krishna Trayodashi under the amanta month reckoning used across South and West India, Kartika Krishna Trayodashi under the purnimanta reckoning used across North India -- and marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festivity. It is simultaneously the Jayanthi (birthday) of Lord Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods who emerged from the cosmic ocean churning (Samudra Manthan) carrying the pot of nectar (amrita) and the science of Ayurveda.

On this evening, Lakshmi Puja is performed at Pradosh Kaal (evening twilight): when the goddess is believed to visit prosperous, well-lit homes. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and illuminated with diyas and rangoli to welcome her. The timing of Pradosh Kaal (after sunset but before nightfall) is critical: performing the puja within this window is believed to bring Lakshmi's blessings for the whole year.

Dhanteras is the single biggest day for gold and silver purchases in India. Buying precious metals, copper utensils, or new vessels on this day is believed to usher in perpetual prosperity. The tradition links back to a story in which a young king was destined to die on the fourth day after marriage: his bride outwitted death by piling gold and silver around the bedroom door and singing songs all night, causing Yama to retreat without entering.