India, Nov. 5 -- Dhanteras is the first day of the five days of Diwali celebrations. It is a day of prayer for health, wealth, and prosperity. Dhanteras is also known as Dhantrayodashi, and it symbolizes Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Kuber. Apart from buying gold and silver, and other essential items, Dhanteras has a lot of mythological significance as stated in ancient Hindu scriptures.

The Divine Physician

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Dhanvantari emerged during Samudra Manthan, the churning of the cosmic ocean, carrying a pot of Amrit, the nectar of immortality. He is regarded as the divine physician and is associated with Ayurveda. His appearance is celebrated as Dhanvantari Jayanti, and devotees worship him on Dh...