Dhanteras kicks off the five-day Diwali celebrations, and in 2026 it falls on Friday, 6th November, two days before Lakshmi Puja on Sunday, 8th November. It's the day families welcome prosperity into the home, worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, and — by tradition — bring home something new and auspicious.
If you're celebrating in Melbourne, a little planning now means a calm, well-prepared Dhanteras. Here's a practical guide to what families traditionally buy and what you'll need for the puja.
(Puja timings can vary by city and by family panchang, so check your local calendar for the exact muhurat.)
What Is Dhanteras All About?
"Dhan" means wealth, and Dhanteras is traditionally seen as a day to invite prosperity, good health, and good fortune into the household. Many families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, light a diya in the evening, and buy something new — often metal items or utensils — as a symbol of auspicious beginnings.
1. A Lakshmi-Ganesh Murti for Your Mandir
If you're setting up a new pooja space or refreshing your existing one before Diwali, a Lakshmi-Ganesh idol is a meaningful Dhanteras purchase.
👉 The Laxmi Ganesh Saraswati Murti – Divine Trio on Platform brings together Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Saraswati — symbolising wealth, wisdom, and knowledge — on a single platform. For a smaller mandir or an office desk, the Mini Lord Ganesha Decorative Idol – Silver & Bronze is a compact option. Browse more in the Religious Statues range.
2. Copper for the Kitchen
Buying a new metal utensil on Dhanteras is a long-standing tradition in many households, and copper is a popular choice for its traditional appeal and everyday usefulness.
👉 The Copper Jug With Lid is a practical, good-looking piece for serving and storing water at home. Explore the full Copper Utensils collection if you'd like to choose something different, such as a handi or kadai.
3. Brass Bells and Aarti Essentials
No Dhanteras puja feels complete without the sound of a bell during aarti. A brass pooja bell is an affordable, long-lasting addition to your pooja thali.
👉 Choose from the Pooja Bell Brass Small or the Pooja Bell Brass Jumbo, or see all sizes in the Pooja Brass Bell collection. You'll also find brass diyas and aarti stands in the Prayer Items range.
4. Diyas for the Evening
Lighting diyas at dusk is central to Dhanteras, including the diya lit outside the home in the evening in many traditions. Stock up early so you're not short on the day.
👉 The Fancy Diya with Wax 6Pc pack is ready to light, while the Fiber Fancy Diya 1Pc (Ganesh) makes a decorative accent for your pooja space. For more options, explore Diya & Jyot Stands.
5. A Complete Puja Kit
If you'd rather not source every item separately, a ready-made kit covers the basics in one go.
👉 The Sanskar Pooja Samagri Diwali Kit includes the essentials for Lakshmi Puja and Ganesh Puja, so you can focus on the ritual rather than the shopping list.
6. An Auspicious Touch for Your Entrance
A decorative Lakshmi ornament at the front door or inside the car is a lovely way to carry the festive spirit through the Diwali season.
👉 The Laxmi Mata Ji Car & Door Hanging Ornament with Tassel works for doors, entrances, pooja areas, and car interiors, and is suggested by the brand for Diwali and Dhanteras gifting.
Your Dhanteras Checklist
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Before 6th November: Order your murti, bell, copper or brass purchase, and puja kit
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The day before: Clean the home and the pooja space, set up diyas and your thali
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6th November (Dhanteras): Evening Lakshmi-Ganesh puja and diya lighting, as per your family tradition
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7th–8th November: Choti Diwali and main Diwali Lakshmi Puja
Start Diwali on the Right Note
Dhanteras is a small, meaningful day that sets the tone for the whole festival. Whether you're picking up a first idol for your new home or adding a copper piece to the kitchen, a little preparation helps the day feel unhurried and special.
Explore Dhanteras and Diwali essentials at India At Home — idols, brass, copper, diyas, and puja kits, delivered across Melbourne.
