Bhubaneswar, Nov 6: Today marks Dhanteras, an auspicious occasion dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera. According to popular belief, purchasing gold on Dhanteras brings wealth, prosperity and good fortune into the household.

However, with gold prices witnessing a sharp surge ahead of the festival, buyers may find themselves rethinking their purchases.

But gold is not the only item considered auspicious on Dhanteras. According to astrologers, several other household items can also be purchased to invite prosperity and abundance. So, what should you buy, and when is the most auspicious time to shop? Let's know. 

Celebrated on the Trayodashi Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, Dhanteras is considered an auspicious day to worship Goddess Lakshmi, particularly during the evening hours.

According to religious beliefs, purchasing certain items on this day is believed to multiply wealth and prosperity thirteenfold. Astrologers recommend making these purchases during the auspicious Sthira Lagna period.

This year, the auspicious period is said to fall between 1:32 PM and 3:13 PM on Friday.

Apart from gold and silver, devotees can purchase rice, salt, turmeric, whole coriander seeds and even a broom, traditionally considered a symbol of cleanliness and Goddess Lakshmi's blessings.

Pictures of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Narayana, idols of Lord Ganesha and pictures of Lord Kubera are also considered auspicious purchases.

However, astrologers advise against purchasing glass utensils, iron or aluminium items on this occasion.

Dhanteras is also believed to bring particularly favourable results for people belonging to Aries, Cancer, Libra, Sagittarius and Aquarius zodiac signs. Those belonging to other zodiac signs are advised to donate to the underprivileged to invite good fortune.

Astrologers also advise people to avoid borrowing or lending money on this day.

Meanwhile, gold prices have witnessed a significant surge on the occasion of Dhanteras, leaving prospective buyers worried.

Gold prices have increased by nearly Rs 6,000 over the last two days. As of yesterday, the price of 10 grams of gold had touched Rs 1,33,850.

On November 5, gold was priced at Rs 1,30,900 per 10 grams. On November 3, the rate stood at Rs 1,28,000, while on November 1, it was recorded at Rs 1,27,300.

Dhanteras traditionally witnesses a surge in gold purchases, as many people believe buying the precious metal on this auspicious day brings financial prosperity and good fortune.

Consequently, jewellery stores usually see heavy footfall during the festive season. However, the sharp rise in gold prices could dampen the festive shopping spirit and disappoint customers planning to purchase gold.

Gold prices had touched record highs earlier this year, although there was some relief during the festive season, encouraging buyers to make their purchases.

However, the sudden surge just ahead of Dhanteras has come as a fresh shock to customers. With prices climbing, many buyers may now have to reconsider their festive shopping plans.