Celebrations
On Dhanteras Goddess Laxmi is worshipped to usher in prosperity and wealth especially among the business community.
Homes and offices are decorated on the occasion of Dhanteras and the entrances are made colourful with traditional Rangoli to welcome Goddess Laxmi. Small footprints are also drawn all over the house to welcome Goddess Laxmi.
It’s been a long tradition to buy utensils and gold and silver coins and ornaments during Dhanteras. It’s been a common trend these days to exchange gifts among friends and families on this day.
Many people set up businesses or buy cars or even set up wedding dates. Laxmi puja is performed with faith and dedication and tiny diyas or lamps are lit the whole night.
Devotional songs or bhajans are sung in praise of Goddess Laxmi. In Maharashtra, there is a custom of offering dry coriander seeds and jaggery as Naivedya. In villages cattle are worshipped by armers as they are the source of income.