Dhanteras 2024: What and when to buy on first day of Diwali, gold price updates
Dhanteras, the first day of the five-day Diwali festival, begins on Tuesday, October 29. Many Indians relate to Dhanteras as a special occasion to buy gold and other valuables, a tradition passed down through generations. This day is believed to bring luck and prosperity, as families often gather to make these purchases.
The festival starts with Dhanteras and ends in Diwali, which many people often think of as a one- or two-day celebration. On this special day, devotees worship Lord Kuber, the god of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantri, the god of health.
The most auspicious time for puja
The ideal time to perform Lakshmi Puja during Diwali is after sunset. For Dhanteras, the best time for the puja is between 6:57 pm and 8:21 pm on October 29, aligning perfectly with Pradosh Kaal—a three-hour period considered the most favourable for worship.
The Trayodashi Tithi, associated with Dhanteras, begins at 10:31 am on October 29 and ends at 1:15 pm on October 30. This makes the entire day important for various rituals and purchases.
Gold price in India
As many are eager to purchase gold, and the prices on October 29, 2024, are noteworthy. The price for 22K gold is ₹73,750 per sovereign (10 grams), equating to ₹7,375 per gram. For those interested in 24K gold, the price is ₹80,450 per sovereign, or ₹8,045 per gram. Meanwhile, 18K gold is priced at ₹60,340 for a sovereign and ₹6,034 per gram in India.
In Kerala, the gold prices have seen an increase, with 22K gold now priced at ₹59,000 per sovereign (8 grams) or ₹7,375 per gram. For 24K gold, the price is ₹64,360 per sovereign and ₹8,045 per gram. Meanwhile, 18K gold is priced at ₹48,272 for a sovereign, which translates to ₹6,034 per gram.
It’s shopping time! What to buy
For buying gold, the early evening during Pradosh Kaal is the best time. Beyond gold, many people also purchase silver, copper, and brass utensils, which are often filled with food or water before being brought into the home.
Idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, made from clay or metal, are also popular purchases.
A unique and widely practised tradition on Dhanteras is buying a broom, which symbolizes the removal of negative energy, poverty, and obstacles, inviting positivity and prosperity into the home.
People also look for electronics such as phones, laptops, microwaves, and refrigerators during this festive period.
Gold coins, particularly those adorned with images of Goddess Lakshmi or sacred symbols, are sought after.
Other recommended purchases include silver items like coins, Kalash, bowls, tumblers, and small statues of Lakshmi and Ganesha. New utensils made of stainless steel, brass, or copper are also favoured, as they represent abundance.