Assam is eagerly waiting to Diwali and as such is celebrating Dhanteras today.
Dhanteras also known as Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanvantari Trayodashi is the first day that marks the festival of Diwali in India. On this day, Hindus consider it auspicious to make new purchases. 'Dhan' means wealth and 'teras' means the thirteenth day of the moon cycle.
During the Puja in the evening, people place seven grains in front of goddess Lakshmi's idol or picture and seek her blessings for prosperity and wealth.
People also keep diyas in front of their houses until to get rid of evil forces and negative energy on this day.
On Dhanteras, people purchase new utensils and ornaments which are believed to bring good luck. Even the purchase of automobiles and home appliances is considered to be good.
Jewellery outlets in Guwahati has witnessed swarm of customers who have come to purchase mostly gold and silver coins with Gold 10 gm at Rs 31, 550 and Silver at Rs 465. According to sellers, people preferred the 5 gm silver over gold.
However, demand for precious metals including gold and silver were lacklustre in the morning trade this Dhanteras on Monday as MCX Gold prices were marginally down 0.01 per cent at Rs 31,752 per 10 gram at around 10.45 am. MCX Silver futures were down 0.16 per cent at Rs 38,557 per 1 kg.
People invest in gold on Dhanteras as it is believed to be auspicious and brings prosperity for the buyer. The yellow metal is also considered to be a good hedge against inflation.
