Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival and is considered one of the most auspicious days in Hindu tradition. Celebrated in honor of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, this day is ideal for purchasing gold, silver, utensils and other valuable items that bring luck and happiness.
However, as auspicious as the day is for shopping, Dhanteras also comes with some beliefs and restrictions. Donating specific items on this day is considered inauspicious and may lead to loss of prosperity or negative energy.
Here are four things you should avoid giving on Dhanteras to ensure positive energy and abundance in your home:-
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1. Don’t give money
On Dhanteras, donating or giving money – especially coins or cash – is believed to invite financial loss. This day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, and giving money can symbolize letting go of money from your life. Instead, focus on bringing money and valuables home to attract prosperity.
Tip: If you want to donate, do it a day before or after Dhanteras rather than during the main puja period.
2. Avoid gifting black clothes or items
Black color is often associated with negativity and is considered inauspicious during festivals like Dhanteras and Diwali. Gifting or donating black clothes, bags or shoes is believed to block the flow of positive energy and attract bad luck.
Tip: Choose colors like red, yellow, green or golden, which represent prosperity, happiness and divine energy.
(Also Read: Dhanteras 2025: When is Dhanteras? Date, auspicious time, city-wise timing and significance before Diwali)
3. Do not give oil or ghee
Oil and ghee are considered symbols of light and positivity, which is essential for lighting lamps and puja rituals during Dhanteras and Diwali. It is believed that giving these reduces the shine and prosperity of your home. Keep these items for your home rituals to retain divine blessings and wealth.
Tip: To receive the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, light ghee or mustard oil lamps in your house instead of distributing them.
4. Avoid giving iron items
Traditionally, iron objects like utensils, appliances or decorations are avoided while gifting or donating on Dhanteras. Iron is related to Saturn and it is believed that offering iron on this day can bring challenges or bad luck. Additionally, Dhanteras means buying metals like gold, silver or brass, which are associated with prosperity.
Tip: If you are planning to buy utensils, choose silver, brass or copper instead of iron or steel for good luck.
(Also read: Dhanteras 2025: What to buy this year for good luck – From gold to silver and 5 auspicious items for prosperity)
What to do on Dhanteras: What you should do instead
Although you should avoid giving away certain items, there are several positive practices to attract money and happiness:
Buy gold, silver or brass items like coins, jewelery or utensils.
Light 13 lamps in the evening as part of the Yama Deepam ritual to ward off negativity.
Clean your house to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
Worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber during Pradosh Kaal (evening time).
Decorate with rangoli and flowers to invite positive energy and blessings.
Dhanteras is a celebration of prosperity, positivity and new beginnings. Although shopping and gift giving are common on this day, following the traditional do’s and don’ts helps in maintaining the auspiciousness of the day. Avoid giving money, oil, iron or black items to maintain good luck and happiness in your life. Celebrate this Dhanteras 2025 by embracing prosperity, light and divine energy in every corner of your home.
(This article is for your general information only. Zee News does not confirm its accuracy or reliability.)