Dhanteras is one of the most important shopping occasions before Diwali. From gold and silver jewellery to new utensils and household essentials, many families make purchases on this day, believing they will bring prosperity and good fortune. But apart from precious metals, what else is considered auspicious to buy on Dhanteras? And which items do some families prefer to avoid?

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Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, will be celebrated on Friday, November 6, 2026, marking the beginning of Diwali festivities. The festival is associated with wealth, prosperity and good health.

These customs vary across regions and families and are not universal religious rules. Here is a look at what to buy, what to avoid and the Dhanteras puja muhurat for 2026.

Dhanteras 2026: What should you buy?

1. Gold and silver

Buying gold and silver is among the most popular Dhanteras traditions. Families purchase jewellery, coins and other precious metal items as symbols of wealth and prosperity. The purchases are traditionally believed to invite good fortune and Goddess Lakshmi's blessings.

2. New utensils

Brass, copper and steel utensils are commonly purchased during Dhanteras. Some families believe that bringing new vessels home symbolises abundance and a fresh beginning. According to one custom, the vessels should not be brought home empty. They are filled with rice, grains, sweets or water to represent prosperity.

3. Coriander seeds (Dhaniya)

Coriander seeds are considered auspicious in some households and are associated with prosperity and abundance. Some families also use them during Lakshmi Puja as part of their Dhanteras traditions.

4. Turmeric (Haldi)

Turmeric holds an important place in Hindu rituals and is traditionally associated with purity, good fortune and prosperity. It is commonly used in puja and other auspicious ceremonies.

5. Lakshmi and Ganesha idols

Many families purchase idols or pictures of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for Diwali worship. Goddess Lakshmi is associated with wealth and prosperity, while Lord Ganesha is worshipped for wisdom and the removal of obstacles.

6. Brooms

Buying a new broom is another Dhanteras custom followed in some regions. It is symbolically associated with cleaning the home and removing negativity before welcoming prosperity.

Dhanteras 2026: What should you avoid buying?

While several purchases are considered auspicious, some traditional beliefs advise against buying the following items on Dhanteras:

1. Iron objects

Certain households avoid purchasing iron items because of the metal's association with Shani Dev. Instead, they prefer metals such as gold, silver, brass and copper for festive purchases.

2. Sharp objects

Knives, scissors and other sharp tools are avoided by some families because they are symbolically associated with cutting and conflict.

3. Black-coloured items

Some traditional practices consider black inauspicious during festive occasions. Families following this belief may avoid buying black clothes, accessories and household products.

4. Glassware

Some households prefer not to purchase glass items because they are fragile and can break easily. Breakage is symbolically linked to instability or loss in these traditional beliefs.

Why is buying gold considered auspicious on Dhanteras?

Dhanteras is associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari. Goddess Lakshmi represents wealth and prosperity, Lord Kubera is associated with riches, while Lord Dhanvantari is revered as the deity of health and Ayurveda.

Buying gold, silver and new household items is traditionally believed to invite abundance and good fortune. Other purchases, such as coriander seeds and turmeric, are also considered auspicious in some regional traditions.

The customs around items to avoid are based on symbolic associations with negativity, conflict or loss. However, these beliefs are not compulsory rules, and practices can differ from one household to another.

Dhanteras 2026: Date and puja muhurat

Dhanteras will be observed on Friday, November 6, 2026. According to the New Delhi Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi begins at 10:30 am on November 6 and ends at 10:47 am on November 7.

The Dhanteras puja muhurat in New Delhi is from 6:02 pm to 7:57 pm on November 6.

Festival detailDate and time
Dhanteras 2026Friday, November 6
Trayodashi Tithi begins10:30 am, November 6
Trayodashi Tithi ends10:47 am, November 7
Dhanteras puja muhurat6:02 pm to 7:57 pm

Puja timings may vary from city to city. Devotees are advised to check their local Panchang for the timings applicable to their location.

Whether you plan to buy gold, silver, utensils or other traditional items, Dhanteras is ultimately a celebration of prosperity, health and new beginnings.