Dhanteras, the first day of the Diwali festival, is celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm across India, and in Ahmedabad, the spirit of Dhanteras is especially vibrant. This day, also known as Dhanatrayodashi, is considered auspicious for buying gold, silver, and other precious items, symbolising wealth and prosperity. Ahmedabad, a city with a rich cultural heritage and a booming economy, has its own unique way of marking this festive day. Celebrating Dhanteras in Ahmedabad involves a mix of traditional rituals, community events, festive shopping, and a deep reverence for Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari. Here’s a closer look at the significance of Dhanteras and how it is celebrated in this lively city.
The Significance of Dhanteras
The word “Dhanteras” is derived from “Dhan,” meaning wealth, and “Teras,” meaning the thirteenth day in the Hindu lunar calendar. This day is believed to be associated with the birth of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who appeared during the churning of the ocean, or Samudra Manthan, with a pot of amrita (nectar) for the gods. For this reason, Dhanteras is also considered auspicious for seeking blessings for health, longevity, and prosperity.
In addition, Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, is worshipped on this day. People across India, and particularly in Ahmedabad, perform pujas (prayers) to invite prosperity and abundance into their homes. The tradition of purchasing gold, silver, and utensils on Dhanteras is deeply rooted in this belief that investing in wealth on this day will bring good fortune and success in the coming year. Observing Dhanteras in Ahmedabad becomes a blend of spirituality and community, with people engaging in various rituals, shopping sprees, and family gatherings.
Dhanteras Shopping Extravaganza in Ahmedabad
Dhanteras marks one of the busiest shopping days in Ahmedabad, as locals believe that buying new items, especially precious metals and household goods, will bring good fortune. Marketplaces like C.G. Road, Manek Chowk, and Law Garden witness a surge in shoppers looking for gold and silver jewellery, coins, utensils, and electronics. These markets are filled with vibrant stalls and shops offering exclusive Dhanteras discounts and deals to attract buyers. The festive mood is palpable, with shops adorned in decorative lights, flowers, and rangolis to welcome customers and celebrate the spirit of Dhanteras in Ahmedabad.
Gold and silver jewellery are top choices on Dhanteras, and many families in Ahmedabad also buy silver coins or idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi as auspicious symbols. Additionally, items such as brass or copper utensils, believed to bring good health, are also popular purchases. With the rise of e-commerce, some shoppers also explore online shopping. Here retailers offer Dhanteras specials and discounts, although traditional in-person shopping remains the preferred choice for many in Ahmedabad.
Rituals and Customs of Dhanteras in Ahmedabad Homes
Dhanteras is marked by special rituals and pujas performed in households across Ahmedabad. Early in the morning, families clean their homes, decorate doorways with torans (floral garlands), and create colourful rangolis to welcome prosperity and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. In the evening, a traditional puja is performed, where family members gather to pray to Lord Dhanvantari and Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and well-being.
During the puja, a diya (oil lamp) is lit at the main entrance of the house, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance. This diya is kept burning throughout the night to signify the presence of divine light. Additionally, Ahmedabad residents often light diyas in their courtyards, balconies, and on the streets to create a serene and festive atmosphere. Observing Dhanteras in Ahmedabad with these rituals strengthens familial bonds and brings the community together, united in their hopes for prosperity.
The Role of Ahmedabad’s Jewellery Market on Dhanteras
Ahmedabad has a bustling market, with renowned jewelers and stores that see massive footfall on Dhanteras. The city’s jewelry stores offer a variety of traditional and contemporary designs, catering to all types of buyers. On Dhanteras, stores like Tanishq, C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons, and local jewelry shops in areas like Manek Chowk become hotspots, with people lining up to buy gold coins, silver ornaments, and intricate jewelry pieces.
This surge in gold and silver purchases on Dhanteras isn’t just a custom; it reflects the trust and belief that these precious metals are investments for the future. Some jewelers also launch exclusive collections around Dhanteras to mark the occasion, often featuring designs inspired by Indian mythology or heritage art forms. Celebrating Dhanteras in Ahmedabad through jewelry shopping reflects the city’s love for cultural traditions and the enduring belief in the auspicious power of precious metals.
Community and Cultural Events
In Ahmedabad, Dhanteras isn’t just a household celebration—it’s a community affair as well. Many neighborhoods organize events, including pujas, dance performances, and traditional music. Residents come together in community halls or temple grounds to participate in collective celebrations, making the day more festive and unifying. Cultural centers in Ahmedabad often hold Diwali-themed exhibitions and fairs where artisans display handicrafts, clothing, and festive items. These fairs provide families an opportunity to enjoy the festive ambiance and support local artisans.
Many temples in Ahmedabad organize special Dhanteras aartis (prayers), attracting a large number of devotees who seek blessings for prosperity. People from all walks of life visit temples like the Hutheesing Jain Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Akshardham to participate in prayers and offer their devotion. These collective gatherings enhance the joy of Dhanteras in Ahmedabad and bring people together in the spirit of unity and devotion.
Ahmedabad’s Festive Food Traditions on Dhanteras
Food is an integral part of any celebration in Gujarat, and Dhanteras in Ahmedabad is no exception. Special delicacies are prepared, with many families making sweets such as ghughra (a sweet dumpling filled with dry fruits and coconut), fafda, jalebi, and kheer. Some households prepare traditional dishes like undhiyu and khichu, adding a special touch to the festive meal.
In recent times, families in Ahmedabad have also embraced new food trends, blending traditional Gujarati flavors with modern cuisine. Restaurants and cafes in the city often create special Dhanteras menus, and sweets shops witness a high demand for festive sweets and savory snacks. Dhanteras sweets are also exchanged as gifts, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Thus, Dhanteras in Ahmedabad is not only a feast for the soul but also a treat for the taste buds.
Dhanteras Amidst Modernization in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has rapidly developed in recent years, embracing modernity while preserving its cultural heritage. Many residents now celebrate Dhanteras by purchasing electronics, vehicles, and real estate, which are seen as valuable assets. Automobile showrooms, electronics stores, and even real estate agencies see a spike in sales on Dhanteras as people invest in long-term assets. With digital payment options, online shopping, and a wide range of offers, Dhanteras shopping has become convenient and accessible. This caters to a new generation that values tradition and modern convenience alike.
Additionally, some Amdavadis (residents of Ahmedabad) prefer donating on Dhanteras to mark the occasion. They contribute to charities, orphanages, or initiatives that support underprivileged communities, believing that such acts of kindness bring blessings. Observing Dhanteras in Ahmedabad has thus evolved to encompass both material and spiritual investments.
The Emotional Essence of Dhanteras in Ahmedabad
For people in Ahmedabad, Dhanteras is more than just shopping and rituals; it’s an occasion to reconnect with family, share memories, and renew bonds. The festive atmosphere brings neighbors and relatives together. This creates memories filled with warmth and laughter. For many, Dhanteras is a time to reflect on the importance of family, tradition, and the blessings of prosperity, health, and well-being.
The significance of Dhanteras in Ahmedabad lies in its ability to unite the community, uphold traditions, and keep the spirit of prosperity alive. As families gather to celebrate, they also pass down these traditions to the next generation. This ensures that the spirit of Dhanteras will continue to thrive in Ahmedabad for years to come.
Dhanteras in Ahmedabad is a beautiful blend of tradition, culture, and community spirit. From elaborate shopping sprees to heartfelt rituals, the festival perfectly captures the city’s devotion to wealth, health, and prosperity. Observing Dhanteras in this vibrant city is a unique experience, where residents not only honor age-old customs but also embrace the changing times. This adds new dimensions to this beloved festival. Through all the hustle and festivities, the heart of Dhanteras in Ahmedabad remains the same—a joyful celebration of life’s blessings and the hope for a prosperous future.
If you want to explore this beautiful city and know more about its culture, you can book San Diego to Ahmedabad flights only with Indian Eagle. If you make your booking before 28th November, you can also make use of the Indian Eagle Diwali flight offer and get a discount of $25. Just use the coupon code DIWALITD25 when booking USA-India flights at IndianEagle.com.
