The Dhanavantari Day is being observed across the country today by organizing several programmes.
The day is celebrated on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Pakshya.
The day is annually marked in commemoration of Lord Dhanavantari, the promoter of Vedic Ayurveda science. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Dhanvantari, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, emerged from the Samudra Manthan on the day of Dhanteras, holding a jar of amrit and the sacred text on Ayurveda.
Goddess Lakshmi also emerged out of the milky water during the phenomenon. Hence, Lord Dhanvantari is worshipped on this day, along with Goddess Lakshmi.
On Dhanteras, many people buy metals, primarily gold and silver, as it is considered auspicious.
Many even purchase utensils and kitchenware. Hence, on Dhanteras, the market witnesses huge demand for gold and silver. Several people also consider this day auspicious for the purchase of vehicles, properly and electrical appliances.
Nepal has formally started celebrating the day since the establishment of Naradevi Ayurveda Campus in Kathmandu in 1985.
Source : RSS,
