Common North Indian household practice
Dhanteras · Health, lamps and new beginnings
The first day of Diwali: remembering Dhanvantari, the lamp for Yama at the door, and bringing something new home.
WHEN
Friday, 6 November 2026
The date is for India (Drik Panchang, Gurugram). Outside India it can differ by a day; check your own city.
- Fri 6 NovDhanteras
- Sun 8 NovDiwali · Lakshmi Puja
- Tue 10 NovGovardhan Puja
- Wed 11 NovBhai Dooj
Source: Drik Panchang, Dhanteras 2026, location shown as Gurugram (checked 14 October 2026)
Choosing the time
The Dhanteras puja and the lamp for Yama are usually done in the evening, after sunset (Pradosh Kaal). Times differ by city; use one trusted panchang for your own city.
Find your city’s Dhanteras timing on Drik Panchang ↗Add this date to Google Calendar ↗ · All festival dates
Dhanteras is the thirteenth day (Trayodashi) of the waning moon in Kartika in the purnimanta calendar, two days before the new moon of Diwali.
AT A GLANCE
What you need
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
What to gather
For the puja
Lamp for Yama
Something new
THE BOOK
Deepotsav: The Diwali-week pujas at home, Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj
₹99 · Order on WhatsApp, the PDF comes to your phone.
See the book
THE BOOK
Dhanteras Puja: Dhanvantari, the lamp for Yama, and something new
₹49 · Order on WhatsApp, the PDF comes to your phone.
See the bookSafety
Keep lamps on heat-safe trays, away from curtains, saris and dupattas, and never leave a burning lamp unattended, least of all where children or pets can reach it.
One festival, many traditions
Many families remember Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, on Dhanteras; others worship Lakshmi and Kubera, or light a lamp for Yama at the door for protection. Buying metal utensils, silver or a new broom is a widespread custom. Families combine these differently; follow your own.