On the Trayodashi Tithi or the thirteenth day of the Krishna Paksha of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik the festival of Diwali begins with Dhanteras or Dhantrayodashi. The word Dhanteras is derived from Dhan which means wealth and Teras which means thirteenth. Goddess Lakshmi, God of Ayurveda- Lord Dhanvantari, God of Wealth- Lord Kubera, and God of Death- Yamraj are worshipped on this day during Pradosh Kaal.

In honor of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari people light diyas or lamps and kept them burning all through the night of Dhanteras. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits the homes of her devotees on this day to fulfill their wishes on this day.

It is also believed that gold and silver protect us from bad omen and buying them on Dhanteras bring more wealth and prosperity, so this day is considered as an auspicious occasion to buy precious metals like gold and silver. People make new purchases, especially of gold or silver articles, new utensils, and also go for the purchase of appliances and automobiles, as they believe that new wealth or some items made of precious metal would earn them good luck.