Dhanteras 2026 falls on Friday, 6 November. According to Drik Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi begins at 10:30 AM on 6 November and ends at 10:47 AM on 7 November. The evening puja muhurat is 5:28 PM to 7:26 PM in Kolkata and 6:02 PM to 7:57 PM in New Delhi.
In some homes, Dhanteras begins with a trip to the market for a silver coin. In others, it starts with cleaning the puja space, bringing home a new utensil and setting out diyas for the evening. If you’re planning both the shopping and the puja, start by checking your local muhurat. Then decide what you’d actually like to bring home and which traditions you want to follow with your family.
When Is Dhanteras in 2026?
Dhanteras, also called Dhantrayodashi, is observed on the thirteenth lunar day of the waning fortnight. It marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations for many families. In 2026, Trayodashi spans parts of two calendar dates. It is already in effect during the evening Pradosh Kaal on Friday, 6 November, which is why the main Dhanteras puja takes place that evening.
| Dhanteras 2026 calendar |
Date and time |
| Festival date |
Friday, 6 November 2026 |
| Trayodashi Tithi begins |
6 November at 10:30 AM |
| Trayodashi Tithi ends |
7 November at 10:47 AM |
| Kolkata puja muhurat |
6 November, 5:28 PM to 7:26 PM |
| New Delhi puja muhurat |
6 November, 6:02 PM to 7:57 PM |
All times are in Indian Standard Time. The puja windows are city-specific, so check the Panchang for your location if you live outside Kolkata or New Delhi.
What Is the Spiritual Significance of Dhanteras?
Dhanteras brings together traditions centred on health, prosperity and gratitude. In the story of Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the ocean, Lord Dhanvantari is said to have emerged carrying a pot of amrit. His appearance is remembered on Dhanteras, and devotees honour him with prayers for good health.
The evening worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera is associated with household prosperity. Some families also observe Yama Deepam, the tradition of lighting a lamp dedicated to Lord Yama during Pradosh Kaal. The way families perform these rituals can vary with region and household custom.
How to Perform Dhanteras Puja at Home
A simple home puja can fit into the evening even if your family is also preparing for Diwali. Set out the essentials ahead of time so you can sit down together without having to look for flowers, wicks or offerings once the muhurat begins.
- Prepare the puja space. Clean the area and set out a clean cloth, a diya, flowers and any offerings your family usually keeps.
- Set up for Lakshmi and Kubera Puja. Place the images or idols you use for worship. If your family honours Lord Dhanvantari on Dhanteras, include his image or offer a prayer for good health.
- Light the diya during your local puja muhurat. Offer flowers, fruit or sweets according to your household tradition.
- Include your purchase if you wish. A new coin or utensil can be placed near the puja setup if that is part of your family’s practice.
- Close with a prayer and share prasad. If your family observes Yama Deepam, set aside time for it during your local Pradosh Kaal.
What to Buy on Dhanteras 2026
1. Gold jewellery or a gold coin
Gold is a traditional Dhanteras purchase. If you’ve already been planning to buy jewellery, think about how often you’ll wear it. A pair of everyday earrings or a simple pendant may suit you better than a piece reserved for special occasions. Compare the total billed price, including any making charges, before choosing.
2. A silver coin or a small silver item
A silver coin is a familiar choice for families who like to place their new purchase near the puja setup. A small silver bowl or diya is another option if you’d like something you can bring out for future celebrations. Decide whether the item is for worship, gifting or regular use before you choose a design.
3. A utensil your household will use
A new thali, serving bowl or set of glasses can make sense if you often host family during the festive season. If you’re choosing between several items, start with a simple question: What did you wish you had the last time everyone came over for a meal? That answer can make the shopping list much shorter.
4. Diyas and puja essentials
Clay diyas, cotton wicks, flowers and a puja thali are practical choices for a modest festive budget. Count the diyas you need for the entrance and puja space, and check what you already have at home before heading to the market.
5. A thoughtful festive gift
If you’re visiting family or friends, choose something that fits the recipient’s tastes. A small diya set, a box of sweets or a useful serving piece can make a lovely gift. A handwritten note wishing the family good health and happiness adds a personal touch.
Dhanteras Astrology and Vastu Tips
Check the tithi and your local puja muhurat
The tithi is the lunar day. Pradosh Kaal is the evening period around and after sunset used for certain observances. In its Dhanteras listings, Drik Panchang gives a more specific puja window based on the overlap of Pradosh Kaal and Vrishabha Kaal while Trayodashi is in effect. Since these local windows vary by city, use the timing for the place where you’ll perform the puja.
Check a separate Panchang listing if you follow a shopping muhurat
The evening puja window is for worship. If your family follows a muhurat for buying gold, check the purchase timings or Choghadiya for your own city. For example, Drik Panchang lists 12:05 PM to 1:27 PM on 6 November as a Shubha Choghadiya for gold purchases in New Delhi. You can plan a daytime purchase and still set aside the evening for puja.
Start with the entrance and the puja corner
If you’re looking for a simple Vastu-inspired festive routine, clear the shoes, parcels or other items that tend to collect near the entrance. Then tidy the puja corner and set out what you’ll need for the evening. A small rangoli or a diya can be enough to make the entrance feel welcoming.
Give the ritual a personal intention
Before you begin the puja, take a moment to think about what prosperity means for your household this year. It might mean making more time for family, keeping a steadier savings habit or following through on a personal goal. Choose one intention you can carry into the weeks after Diwali, when the decorations come down and everyday routines return.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dhanteras 2026
Is Dhanteras on 6 November or 7 November in 2026?
Dhanteras is on Friday, 6 November 2026. The Trayodashi Tithi continues until 10:47 AM on Saturday, 7 November, while the main puja takes place on Friday evening.
What is the Dhanteras puja time in Kolkata?
The Dhanteras puja muhurat in Kolkata is 5:28 PM to 7:26 PM IST on 6 November 2026, according to Drik Panchang.
Do you have to buy gold on Dhanteras?
Buying gold is a customary choice. You can follow your household tradition and budget by choosing a silver coin, a useful utensil, diyas or something simple for the puja.
Is Dhanteras Puja the same as Diwali Lakshmi Puja?
Dhanteras has its own observance on Trayodashi, including Lakshmi-Kubera Puja in many homes. The main Diwali Lakshmi Puja is a separate observance on Amavasya. If your family celebrates both, check the local muhurat for each occasion.
By astroguria6@gmail.com