Dhanteras 2026: Best Time to Buy Gold and Silver, Puja Muhurat, and Important Do’s and Don’ts

Dhanteras 2026 will be celebrated on Friday, November 6, marking the beginning of the five-day Diwali festivities. Considered an auspicious occasion for wealth, prosperity and good health, Dhanteras is traditionally associated with buying gold, silver, utensils and other household items. Devotees also worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari, while lighting a special diya for Yama. If you are planning to celebrate the festival, here is everything you need to know about the Dhanteras 2026 puja muhurat, the best time to shop, important rituals and customs to follow.

Dhanteras 2026: Date and Puja Muhurat

Dhanteras falls on the Trayodashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated two days before Diwali and is considered an auspicious time to invite prosperity and good fortune into the home.

According to the Indian Institute of Vedic Science (IIVS), the Trayodashi tithi will begin at 10:30 AM on November 6 and conclude at 10:47 AM on November 7.

The main Dhanteras puja is generally performed during Pradosh Kaal, which begins around sunset. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari during this period.

For New Delhi, the Dhanteras 2026 puja muhurat is as follows:

• Date: Friday, November 6, 2026
• Puja Muhurat: 6:02 PM to 7:57 PM
• Trayodashi Tithi Begins: 10:30 AM, November 6
• Trayodashi Tithi Ends: 10:47 AM, November 7

Since auspicious timings differ depending on geographical location, devotees should consult their local Panchang before performing the rituals.

Dhanteras 2026: Best Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Purchasing gold and silver is among the most popular traditions associated with Dhanteras. Many families believe that bringing precious metals home on this occasion symbolises wealth, financial stability and prosperity.

However, buying expensive jewellery is not necessary to celebrate the festival. People can choose from several traditional options, including:

• Gold and silver coins
• New kitchen utensils
• Silver articles
• Other useful household items

According to IIVS, there is no restriction on making purchases at a particular time during the day. However, some families prefer to shop during an auspicious period mentioned in their local Panchang.

A new broom is also considered a traditional Dhanteras purchase, as it represents cleanliness and the removal of negativity from the household. Some families also purchase coriander seeds, which are associated with growth, abundance and prosperity.

If you are planning to shop this Dhanteras, decide on a spending limit beforehand. Following the tradition does not mean making expensive purchases or spending beyond your financial capacity.

Yama Deepam : Significance of Lighting a Diya on Dhanteras

Apart from shopping and Lakshmi Puja, Yama Deepam is another important ritual observed by many Hindu families on Dhanteras. Also known as Yamadeepdaan, the ritual involves lighting a diya in honour of Yama, the god of death.

The tradition is associated with prayers for the long life, good health and protection of family members. It is believed that lighting the lamp helps ward off untimely death and negative energies.

It is recommended to use sesame or mustard oil to light the diya and placing it outside the main entrance of the house, facing south.

However, the exact placement and timing of the lamp may differ according to regional practices and family customs. Those who follow specific traditional rituals should refer to their local Panchang for guidance.

Dhanteras 2026: Dos and Don’ts to Follow

Dhanteras celebrations involve several customs that families observe to welcome prosperity and positivity. While practices may vary across regions, here are some commonly followed dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

Dos to Follow on Dhanteras

1. Clean Your Home Before the Festival

Cleaning the house and puja area is an important part of Dhanteras preparations. Many families believe that a clean and organised home creates a welcoming environment for Goddess Lakshmi.

2. Worship Goddess Lakshmi and Other Deities

Offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari according to your family traditions. Devotees seek blessings for wealth, prosperity, good health and happiness.

3. Make Purchases Within Your Budget

Gold and silver are traditional choices, but you can also purchase utensils, coins or other useful household items. Choose something that suits your needs and budget rather than feeling pressured to spend more.

4. Perform the Yama Deepam Ritual

If your family follows the tradition, light a diya in honour of Yama. This ritual is observed with prayers for the safety, well-being and long life of loved ones.

5. Light Diyas Around Your Home

Lighting earthen lamps at the entrance, balconies and other parts of the house is a common festive practice. These lamps add to the festive atmosphere and symbolise the arrival of light and positivity.

6. Donate to Those in Need

Dhanteras is also a good occasion to practise generosity. Consider donating food, clothes, money or essential supplies to people who need support.

Don’ts to Avoid on Dhanteras

1. Avoid Items Considered Inauspicious

Some families traditionally avoid purchasing iron objects, black-coloured items and sharp tools on Dhanteras. However, these beliefs may differ across communities.

2. Avoid Lending or Borrowing Money

Certain customs advise people against lending or borrowing money on Dhanteras, as the day is associated with welcoming wealth and financial prosperity. Follow this practice if it is part of your family tradition.

3. Do Not Leave Your Home Dark During the Evening

Lighting diyas is an important part of Dhanteras and the wider Diwali celebrations. Many families ensure that their homes are illuminated during the evening puja.

4. Do Not Spend Beyond Your Means

Buying gold and silver is considered auspicious, but there is no need to make costly purchases just to observe the festival. Even a small, meaningful purchase can be part of the tradition.

5. Do Not Forget Yama Deepam

Along with the main puja and shopping preparations, remember to set aside time for Yama Deepam if your family observes this ritual. It holds special significance as a prayer for the health and longevity of loved ones.

Dhanteras 2026: Celebrate the Festival with Faith and Care

Dhanteras is more than just an occasion for buying gold, silver and new household items. It is a festival that brings together traditions, prayers, family celebrations and the spirit of generosity. Whether you choose to purchase precious metals, bring home new utensils or simply light a diya, the focus should remain on welcoming prosperity, good health and happiness. Following the customs according to your family traditions and celebrating within your means can make Dhanteras a meaningful beginning to the Diwali festivities.