As the vibrant festival of Diwali approaches, Nepal is bustling with excitement and anticipation, setting the stage for the arrival of Dhanteras on October 29, 2024. Dhanteras, derived from Sanskrit words meaning wealth and 13th day, is an auspicious occasion for Nepalese and Indian communities. It involves purchasing precious metals like gold, silver, and copper, symbolizing the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Unique Traditions of Dhanteras in Nepal
In Kathmandu, the spirit of Dhanteras is celebrated as Dhantrayodashi, when people gather in historical and commercial districts such as New Road, Indra Chowk, and Asan to buy products for good luck and wealth. Traditionally, gold and silver are purchased, but copper has gained popularity due to its low cost and symbolic meaning. Local businesses are filled with copper lamps, urns, Kalash (sacred pots), and Aarti thalis (prayer plates), all keeping with Hindu worship rituals and welcoming blessings and fortune.
Nepalese also offer prayers to Lord Kuber, the custodian of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda. They believe that buying metals and worshipping these deities will ensure good health, prosperity, and protection in the upcoming year. Copper is known for its durability, while brass utensils hold cultural and spiritual value.
Market Challenges and Resilience of Local Businesses
Nepalese markets are facing unique challenges this year, including rising copper prices from approximately 1650 to 3800 Nepalese rupees per kilo and flooding in October, reducing the availability of new copper goods. This scarcity, combined with inflation, has posed challenges for vendors, who are eager to meet festive demands and adapt to the country’s resilience.
In Kathmandu’s bustling marketplaces, stores sell a wide range of copperware and brass goods, including intricately carved idols of Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Kuber, as well as turtles and fancy items that Nepalese relish for both aesthetic and spiritual reasons. Despite increased foot traffic during Tihar, store owners in Asan and Indra Chowk report lower client sales this year. However, they are still hoping for a boost in revenue closer to Dhanteras, when the shopping frenzy normally peaks.
The Spirit of Dhanteras Shines Bright
Dhanteras, a cultural festival in Nepal, celebrates cultural richness and blessings through the symbolic purchase of copper, silver, and other metals. Despite economic challenges, this tradition unites people across generations and is a cherished part of Nepal’s Diwali festivities, symbolizing fortune, health, and good luck.
Beyond material purchases, Dhanteras is a day for spiritual reflection, worship, and connecting with loved ones, symbolizing prosperity. Local businesses and citizens in Kathmandu are dedicated to maintaining the festive spirit, showcasing Nepal’s steadfast devotion and cultural pride despite challenges.
The way that Nepal celebrates Dhanteras reflects the nation’s resilience, commitment to its culture, and willingness to look to the future while respecting its rich past.
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