New Delhi: A situation of confusion has arisen regarding the date and time of Dhanteras, a festival of wealth and prosperity.

Many people are unsure whether this auspicious occasion should be observed today (October 22) or tomorrow (October 23). “Dhanteras kab hai (When is Dhanteras)?” a netizen asked.

“Lot of confusion related to Dhanteras date. Is it on 22nd Oct or 23rd Oct?” a social media user tweeted.

Kab hai Dhanteras 22 ko ya 23 ko ?

— Nidhi Shrimali (@panditnmshrimal) October 19, 2022

To get clarity about dates, ANI contacted Delhi-based pandit Bhairinath Mishra. He informed that this time Dhanteras will be celebrated over two days.

“Is baari Dhanteras do din manaya jaega. October 22 shaam se October 23 shaam tak manaya jaega (This year Dhanteras is falling on two days. The shubh muhurat for celebrating the festival will start from the evening of October 22 and will continue till the evening of October 23.”

Dhanteras is derived from two words ‘Dhan’ and ‘Teras’. Dhan represents riches, and Teras denotes the thirteenth day. The five-day Diwali festival officially starts on this day, also known as Dhanatrayodashi.

It is believed that the Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean of milk on this day, during Samundra Manthan, or the churning of the sea. One of the luckiest and best days to buy expensive items is today. On this day, people purchase items made of brass, silver, and gold since it is believed that doing so will bring good fortune, success, and protection from the evil eye. Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped together with Lord Kubera.

According to Drik Panchang, one must purchase precious metals and idols at a specific time. The auspicious timing to buy gold and silver begins at 06:02 pm on October 22 and ends at 06:27 pm on October 23.

Also, on October 22, Tripushkar Yog will be applicable. Under this Yog, devotees are believed to get three times the result for their prayers. Sarvartha Siddhi Yog will also be observed.