As per legend, Dhanteras is celebrated in respect of the physician of the Gods, Dhanvantari. He is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. During the stirring of the ocean he emerged with a pot of nectar in his hands on this day.

The festival is observed on two days before Diwali in the month of October or November all over India.

The Goddess Lakshmi’s owl form is worshipped for the good fortune and success in life on this day. To welcome prosperity in their houses people buy precious metals such as silver, gold, car, other utensils, even homes and dates for marriages are also fixed on this day. The clay idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are bought for worship. People decorate their houses with beautiful Rangolis, colourful lights and lanterns. On this day children burst a variety of crackers.