Dhanteras is a festival of shopping. But beware. Not everything you buy on this auspicious day brings fortune. In fact, ancient scriptures and shastras mention a few things to avoid buying on Dhanteras, as they are labelled as unlucky if purchased.
So before you swipe that card or fill your shopping cart with festive essentials, take a moment to learn what not to buy on Dhanteras 2026 because sometimes, less is truly Maa Lakshmi-approved.
The Dhanteras means wealth and the thirteenth day. It celebrates lord Dhanvantari when he emerged from the Samudra Manthan with a pot of amrit inside. And because the main objective of Samudra Manthan was to bring Maa Laxmi back, it is the reason to celebrate Dhanteras.
That’s why to bring prosperity and wealth, we buy gold, silver, and new utensils. But why there are a few things that bring bad luck if purchased on Dhanteras?
According to the shastras, purchasing certain materials or objects can disrupt the positive energy of this day, both symbolically and spiritually.
So, let’s look at the six things to avoid buying on Dhanteras 2026, so your festive shopping stays as auspicious as your prayers.
Is it bad to buy glassware on Dhanteras? Can I buy black clothes or second-hand items on this festive day? Many people wonder about these things because tradition and astrology guide us on what brings positivity and what might attract misfortune.
Here are six common items you should avoid buying on Dhanteras 2026:
Traditionally, buying iron on Dhanteras is considered bad luck. Iron is linked with Shani Dev, the planet associated with hard lessons and karma. Purchasing it on this day is believed to invite difficulties instead of wealth.
So, instead, opt for brass, silver, or copper utensils, which are known to attract positivity and prosperity. Many families even fill new utensils with prasad, grains, or coins before placing them near the Lakshmi idol during the Dhanteras pooja.
Sharp items symbolize cutting off relationships, wealth, or peace. That’s why they fall under the list of things that bring bad luck if purchased on Dhanteras.
If you absolutely must buy new kitchen tools, it’s best to do it before or after Dhanteras, not on the day itself. During Lakshmi Puja, devotees pray for harmony and unity and sharp objects are seen as disrupting that intention.
In Indian tradition, black is often associated with sorrow, negativity, and misfortune. Buying black clothes, shoes, or accessories on Dhanteras attracts negative energy rather than wealth.
But this doesn’t mean you need to throw out your black outfits. Just save the shopping spree for another day. On Dhanteras, focus on colors that radiate positivity like gold, red, yellow, or white, which are linked to Goddess Lakshmi’s divine aura.
Here comes a popular question: is it bad to buy glassware on Dhanteras?
Yes, it’s often considered unlucky. Glass, being fragile and easily breakable, symbolizes instability. In spiritual terms, buying glassware or mirrors on this day may signify a shaky foundation in finances or relationships.
Instead, go for metallic (but not iron) décor or diyas, which represent durability and brightness, both signs of strong fortune.
Buying empty containers or wallets on Dhanteras is a major no-no. Symbolically, emptiness represents a lack of prosperity.
If you want to bring in new storage boxes, cash envelopes, or purses, fill them with coins, grains, or a ₹1 coin wrapped in red cloth before placing them at your prayer altar. This act represents Aishwarya and ensures that what enters your life never leaves empty.
Can I buy second-hand things on Dhanteras?
Well, buying used or second-hand items is generally avoided on Dhanteras. Because the festival celebrates new beginnings, prosperity, and positive energy. So, bringing pre-owned items into the home can symbolically block the flow of wealth and blessings.
Instead, it’s recommended to purchase new items, whether it’s utensils, wallets, or décor. Even small, inexpensive new items are considered auspicious and welcome Lakshmi’s blessings.
Dhanteras 2026 is the perfect opportunity to invite abundance, but remember, mindful choices keep your energy aligned with prosperity. Avoid the items that carry negative symbolism and focus on purchases that celebrate health, harmony, and happiness.
Because at its heart, Dhanteras isn’t about how much you buy, it’s about how much light and good fortune you welcome into your home.
Dhanteras 2026 will be celebrated on Friday, November 6, 2026.
The Dhanteras 2026 puja muhurat is during Pradosh Kaal in the evening, ideally within Vrishabha Kaal, as per the Hindu Panchang.
On Dhanteras 2026, you should buy gold, silver, utensils, diyas, or coins. These items are considered auspicious and symbolize wealth and prosperity.
You should avoid buying sharp objects, glass items, or anything considered inauspicious, as Dhanteras is associated with prosperity and positivity.
You should buy one new broom on Dhanteras. It symbolizes removing negativity and inviting prosperity into the home.
Traditionally, 13 diyas are lit on Dhanteras, including one at the entrance to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
To attract wealth on Dhanteras 2026, perform Lakshmi and Kubera puja, clean your home, light diyas, and buy auspicious items like gold or silver.
Dhanteras is celebrated to worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, marking the beginning of Diwali and symbolizing wealth, health, and prosperity.
It is generally avoided to give money on Dhanteras, as the day is meant for welcoming wealth rather than letting it leave the home.
Gold, silver coins, brass utensils, and diyas are considered the most auspicious items to buy on Dhanteras for prosperity and good fortune.
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