The Story of Lord Dhanvantari and its Connection to Dhanteras

Celebrate Dhanteras with the rich history of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician who inspired rituals that promote health, longevity and prosperity for all.

Dhanteras are held on the thirteenth day of Krishna festival (Trayodashi) during the Hindu month of Kartika. Dhanteras hold a special place in Indian families.

On this auspicious day, people welcome wealth, health and prosperity. The word Dhanteras is derived from the two words “Dhan” (wealth) and “Teras” (thirteenth day), which emphasizes the significance of material and spiritual success. The worship of Lord Dhanvantari is central to the festival, and he is regarded as a divine physician and a harbinger of health and happiness.

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Who is Lord Dhanwantali?

In Indian mythology, Lord Dhanwantali is regarded as the physician of the gods, the founder of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system, and the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is depicted with a pot of amrita (nectar of immortality), Shankha (conch), Chakra (discus) and Jalauka (leech) or a medicinal plant, and has four hands, symbolizing what he brought to mankind. Traditional healing methods.

The story of Dhanvantari is intricately intertwined with the grand narrative of Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the milk ocean, a key event described in ancient Hindu texts such as the Bhagavad Purana and the Vishnu Purana. According to these accounts, gods and asuras worked together to churn the oceans to obtain the elixir of immortality in the hope that it would grant them immortality and unparalleled power.

When the churning reaches its peak, Dhanvantari emerges from the sea with a pot of nectar in his hand. The appearance of Dhanvantari is seen as the divine intervention of Lord Vishnu to ensure the welfare of the universe. His presence blesses the gods with health and immortality, making him the supreme healer in Hindu scriptures.

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What is the connection between Dhanvantari and Dhanteras?

1. Symbol of health and prosperity

In Hinduism, health and wealth are intertwined, and both are vital for a fulfilling life. The appearance of Dhanvantari during Samudra Manthan marks the importance of health as a form of wealth. Therefore, Dhanteras are dedicated to the material prosperity, well-being and vitality that Dhanvantari represents. That is why people worship Lord Dhanvantari in Dhanteras to seek his blessings of health and longevity.

2. Celebrate the arrival of prosperity

A jar of nectar symbolizes life, health and sustenance. In Dhanteras, people buy gold, silver and other valuables to symbolize prosperity and good luck coming into their lives. It is believed that buying precious metals on this day can invoke the blessings of Dhanvantari and ensure that the family is safe from illness and misfortune.

3. Ayurveda and its relevance to Dhanteras

Since Lord Dhanvantari is considered the father of Ayurveda, his association with holistic health practices adds another layer of meaning to Dhanteras. Ayurveda, a traditional medicine, remains an integral part of Indian culture and focuses on the balance of body, mind and spirit. In Dhanteras, families often perform small rituals in honor of Dhanvantari’s Ayurvedic wisdom using herbs and medicinal plants he introduced.

The celebration of Dhanteras has a deep and eternal connection with the divine healer, Lord Dhanvantari. His story is filled with symbolism and ancient wisdom, reminding us that true prosperity includes both material wealth and good health. By honoring Dhanvantari on Dhanteras, we not only bring abundance but also reaffirm our commitment to health, preventive and healing practices that enrich our lives.