Dhanteras is the first day of the five-day Diwali festival in India. It is an auspicious day, known as Dhantrayodashi, which falls on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashwin. "Dhan" means wealth, and "Teras" signifies the thirteenth day, symbolizing prosperity and health.
On Dhanteras, people clean and decorate their homes, and many buy gold, silver, or utensils because it is believed to bring good fortune and wealth. Devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and health, for good health. Dhanteras also honors Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, inviting prosperity into homes and businesses.