The Story of Lord Dhanvantari and its Connection to Dhanteras

Dhanteras is observed on the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of Krishna Paksha, during the Hindu month of Kartika. In Indian homes, Dhanteras has a special position. 

People welcome wealth, health, and prosperity into their life on this auspicious day. The word Dhanteras is derived from the words "Dhan" (wealth) and "Teras" (the thirteenth day), this emphasises the significance of both material and spiritual success. The worship of Lord Dhanvantari, who is regarded as the divine doctor and the portent of health and well-being, is at the centre of this festival. 

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Who is Lord Dhanvantari?

In Hindu mythology, Lord Dhanvantari is regarded as the gods' physician, the founder of Ayurveda, which is the traditional Indian medical system, and the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. A pitcher of amrita (the nectar of immortality), Shankha (conch), Chakra (discus), and Jalauka (leeches) or a medicinal plant, are shown in his image with four hands, signifying the traditional healing methods that he brought to humanity.

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The story of Dhanvantari is intricately woven with the grand narrative of the Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the ocean of milk, a pivotal event described in ancient Hindu texts like the Bhagavata Purana and the Vishnu Purana. According to these accounts, the Devas (gods) and the Asuras (demons) jointly churned the ocean to obtain amrita, the elixir of immortality, hoping it would grant them eternal life and unparalleled power.

As the churning reached its zenith, Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean, holding a pot of amrita. The appearance of Dhanvantari is regarded as a divine intervention by Lord Vishnu to ensure the well-being of the universe. His presence blessed the gods with good health and immortality, establishing him as the supreme healer in the 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 essential for a fulfilling life. Dhanvantari’s emergence during the Samudra Manthan signifies the importance of health as a form of wealth. Dhanteras, therefore, is dedicated to material prosperity, well-being, and vitality that Dhanvantari represents. This is why people worship Lord Dhanvantari on Dhanteras, seeking his blessings for good health and longevity.

2. Celebrating the Arrival of Prosperity

The pot of amrita symbolises life, health, and sustenance. On Dhanteras, people buy gold, silver, and other valuable items, symbolising the arrival of prosperity and good fortune into their lives. Buying precious metals on this day is believed to invoke Dhanvantari’s blessings, ensuring that families remain free from ailments and misfortune.

3. Healing through Ayurveda and Its Relevance on Dhanteras

Since Lord Dhanvantari is regarded as the father of Ayurveda, his association with holistic health practices adds another layer of significance to Dhanteras. Ayurveda, the traditional medical science, continues to be an integral part of Indian culture, focusing on the balance of body, mind, and spirit. On Dhanteras, families often perform small rituals to honour Dhanvantari’s Ayurvedic wisdom, using herbs and medicinal plants that he introduced.

The celebration of Dhanteras holds a deep, timeless connection to the divine healer, Lord Dhanvantari. His story, rich with symbolism and ancient wisdom, reminds us that true prosperity encompasses both material wealth and robust health. By honouring Dhanvantari on Dhanteras, we not only invite abundance but also renew our commitment to wellness, prevention, and healing practices that enrich our lives.