Dhanteras Shopping: Why Brass Is Auspicious (& What to Buy)

What is Dhanteras?

Dhanteras — or Dhanatrayodashi — falls two days before Diwali and marks the start of the festival. The word blends 'dhan' (wealth) and 'teras' (the thirteenth day). It's dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera, and it's traditionally considered one of the most auspicious days of the year to buy something new, especially metal.

Why is buying metal auspicious on Dhanteras?

The belief is simple and lovely: bringing new metal into your home on Dhanteras invites wealth, prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Gold and silver are classic choices, but brass holds a special place in Indian homes — and it's where tradition meets everyday practicality.

Why brass in particular?

Brass (peetal) is warm, durable and far more affordable than gold or silver, which is why so many families bring home a brass item on Dhanteras. It's also a favoured metal in Vastu. A brass name plate or a Vastu name plate is both an auspicious Dhanteras purchase and something you'll actually use every day.

What to buy on Dhanteras

• Gold or silver coins and jewellery
• Brass or silver pooja items — a diya, kalash or idol
• A brass name plate for the main door — auspicious and used daily
• Brass utensils and home decor
• A new broom — traditionally believed to sweep in prosperity
• Dhania (coriander seeds), a regional Dhanteras custom

A brass name plate: the Dhanteras buy that lasts

Here's why it fits Dhanteras so well. You're buying metal for prosperity, and a brass name plate sits right at your main door — the very spot where, in Vastu, Goddess Lakshmi enters the home. Auspicious metal, auspicious placement, and a piece you see every day. Pair it with the festive season and it doubles as a beautiful Diwali gift.

Frequently asked questions

Why do we buy metal on Dhanteras?

Bringing new metal into the home on Dhanteras is believed to invite wealth and prosperity for the coming year, as the day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera.

Is brass good to buy on Dhanteras?

Yes — brass is a warm, durable and affordable metal that's widely considered auspicious, and it's favoured in Vastu. A brass name plate, diya or pooja item makes a meaningful Dhanteras purchase.

What should you not buy on Dhanteras?

Many families traditionally avoid buying iron, sharp objects and black-coloured items on Dhanteras, preferring brass, gold and silver instead.

Bring home something auspicious this Dhanteras — explore our metal name plates.