Going to the jewelers
Growing up, there was always this one day before Diwali when we kids would accompany our parents to a jewelry store. The trinkets we bought would change every year. One time it was a silver coin that we kept for years inside our locker; the next time, a pair of gold earrings much to my mother’s delight.
As youngsters it was, in all honesty, a tiresome exercise, save for the copious amount of soft drinks the jewelry shop owner kept offering us customers.
The tradition of buying gold and silver holds a profound place at Diwali, the Festival of Lights, one of its many customs intertwining history, myth, and cultural significance during a time of joy, celebration, and spiritual renewal.
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The nectar of immortality
Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations. Celebrants worship of Lord Dhanvantary, the god of Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The practice of buying gold and silver reflects not only the aspirations of families but also the rich tapestry of beliefs that have shaped Indian society over centuries.
This year, Dhanteras falls on October 29.
Amateur historian Samir Das from Baghbazar, Kolkata, says that the significance of Dhanteras is deeply rooted in the ancient tale of the Samudra Manthana, “Where the devas (gods) and asuras (demons) churned the ocean of milk in search of the coveted amrit — the nectar of immortality.”
He goes on to explain, “As the Devas and asuras kept on churning, from the turbulent waters emerged Goddess Lakshmi, bringing with her blessings of prosperity, while Lord Dhanvantari appeared with a pot of the precious amrit, symbolizing health and well-being. Alongside them stood Lord Kubera, the god of wealth, solidifying the day’s association with abundance and fortune.”
For the unversed, Lord Kubera, king of the Yakshas, and revered as the treasurer of the gods, symbolises wealth, prosperity, and fame. It is believed that worshipping him during Dhanteras and Diwali brings blessings of good fortune, wealth, and prosperity, promotes the wise management of resources, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of the household.
A clever bride
“Another poignant story linked to Dhanteras involves a clever bride and her husband, the son of King Hima. His horoscope foretold a deadly snakebite on the fourth day of their marriage. To thwart this ominous fate, the bride devised a brilliant plan. She adorned their sleeping chamber’s entrance with gold and silver coins and lit numerous lamps, creating a mesmerizing glow,” revealed history scholar Sumit Biswas.
A night descended, adds Biswas, she sang songs of enchantment and narrated captivating tales to keep her husband awake, warding off Yama, the God of Death. When Yama approached, disguised as a serpent, the dazzling lights blinded him, preventing his entry. Entranced by the bride’s stories, he lingered, listening until dawn, ultimately sparing her husband’s life.
Sacred metals
Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of wealth and prosperity is believed to roam the earth on the night of Diwali as well, blessing homes that are clean, well-lit, and adorned with wealth. Families buy gold and silver not just as material possessions, but as offerings to the goddess, seeking her favor and ensuring abundance for the year ahead.
“However, Dhanteras is not just about honoring deities,” explained Biswas. “It has a social significance as well. Dhanteras symbolizes new beginnings and auspicious purchases. Traditionally, people buy gold, silver, utensils, and electronics on this day, believing these investments invite good fortune into their homes.”
The significance of gold and silver in Indian culture can be traced back to ancient times. In a society where wealth and prosperity were closely tied to agricultural success, precious metals served as a form of currency, a status symbol, and a means of investment. Historical texts, including the Rigveda, reference gold as a sacred metal embodying purity and divinity.
Divine energy
The act of purchasing gold and silver during Diwali transcends mere economics; it is deeply spiritual. “Gold is often seen as a manifestation of divine energy, representing purity, knowledge, and the eternal. By acquiring gold and silver, families express their gratitude for past blessings while symbolically preparing for future prosperity,” added Biswas.
In modern times, the tradition of buying gold and silver during Diwali has evolved, yet its essence remains intact. While many still prefer traditional jewelry and artifacts, there is a growing trend toward ethical and sustainable practices. Consumers are increasingly conscious of where their gold and silver come from, seeking responsibly sourced materials that honor both the planet and the people involved in their creation.
The festival emphasizes the importance of wealth and prosperity while also serving as a reminder to cleanse and purify our surroundings, preparing for the joyous celebrations of Diwali. In fact, as the Festival of Lights approaches, Dhanteras stands as a testament to the intertwined nature of wealth, mythology, and cultural heritage.
Image credit: Wikipedia. A detail from a miniature painting in the Rajastani style, made by the artist LaLa in Udipur, ordered specially by en:user:F16. Painted in September 2004. shows the Hindu god Dhanvantari.