Dhanteras 2026: Don’t want to buy gold or silver? Buy Jhaada instead | Here is its meaning and significance | Today’s news
Every year when Indians celebrate Dhanteras, many people flock to jewelery shops to buy gold, silver and other valuables. However, others reach a local shop or a vendor near a jewelery shop to buy a broom (jhaadu). Have you ever wondered why?
This seemingly ordinary household item holds a special place in Dhanteras traditions. Many believe that bringing a new broom home on this occasion will invite the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, ward off negative energy and pave the way for prosperity. But where does this belief come from and what is the significance of buying a broom on Dhanteras?
Why is buying a broom on Dhanteras considered auspicious and what is its connection with Goddess Lakshmi?
Many of us have often been warned not to touch or even step on a broom with our feet. Additionally, an accidental kick is considered inauspicious, with many people immediately touching it and then touching their forehead as a way of seeking forgiveness, similar to what they would do if they accidentally stepped on a book.
If the elders in the families are to be believed, these customs are deeply rooted in the belief that Goddess Lakshmi stays where houses are clean, well-kept and well-lit. As the broom or jhaadu is used to remove dust and dirt from our homes, it is symbolically associated with keeping the house ready to welcome Lakshmi, who is a symbol of abundance, happiness, prosperity and wealth.
Faith is also associated with Lakshmi’s older sister Alakshmi, who is associated with misfortune and poverty. Also known as Jyeshtha, she is believed to reside in places marked by dirt, strife and negativity. Cleaning the house with a broom is therefore considered a way to ward off Alakshmi and make room for Goddess Lakshmi and prosperity, The Times of India reported.
Since Dhanteras is the day when Lakshmi is formally welcomed into the home, buying a new broom for the occasion is fitting.
The tradition of buying a broom is considered a symbolic gesture of sweeping away past misfortunes and negativity while creating space for wealth and prosperity. Another reason why this practice has never gone away is its affordability. The broom can stand around ₹50 or ₹100, making it accessible to people across income groups. From a daily wage laborer to a factory owner, anyone can join the tradition, regardless of how much they can spend on Dhanteras.
Dhanteras 2026: Date and shubh muhurat timing
This year, Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is celebrated on Friday, November 6. The festival marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebrations. It is considered an auspicious occasion to pray for health, prosperity and wealth. Devotees can buy brooms after Trayodashi begins, around 10:30 am, and are traditionally advised to bring them home before the evening puja.
Also, we must remember that before we use a new broom to sweep away negativity, we must pray to it.
