Dhanteras 2026: 8 Auspicious Items to Buy If Gold and Silver Are Too Expensive

Dhanteras and Diwali hold a special place in Indian traditions, with buying new items considered auspicious during the festive season. Dhanteras, observed on the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartika, is traditionally associated with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Lord Kubera. Many people purchase gold and silver on this occasion, believing that it invites prosperity and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi into their homes. However, with gold and silver prices remaining relatively high, these purchases may be beyond the budget of many families. Traditional beliefs suggest that several affordable alternatives can also be purchased on Dhanteras.

These include Gomati chakras, cowrie shells, conch shells, separate idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, brooms, household utensils, clay lamps, and kheel-batasha. Gomati chakras and cowrie shells are traditionally associated with wealth and good fortune, while conch shells are considered auspicious for worship. Lakshmi and Ganesha idols are central to Diwali prayers, and buying utensils and brooms is also part of the Dhanteras tradition. Clay lamps are used to illuminate homes during Diwali, while kheel and batasha are offered to Goddess Lakshmi as part of the rituals. These customs reflect the belief that prosperity and happiness can be welcomed through meaningful festive purchases, even without buying gold or silver.