The Festival of Prosperity Returns
The festival of lights begins with Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali, and in 2025 it falls on Saturday, October 18. Across India, people celebrate this day by buying gold, silver, and utensils, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to homes and businesses. According to the Hindu calendar, Dhanteras falls on the Trayodashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in Kartik month, and this year the tithi begins at 12:18 PM on October 18 and ends at 1:51 PM on October 19.
Astrologers suggest that the most auspicious puja muhurat for Dhanteras this year will be in the evening, from 7:16 PM to 8:20 PM, when the Vrishabha Lagna (Taurus period) is active. This time is considered ideal for performing Lakshmi Puja and purchasing gold or silver items. In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune, this duration may vary slightly, but evening hours are universally considered prosperous.
Pandit Rajesh Sharma, a Delhi-based astrologer, says, “Buying gold or silver during the Vrishabha Lagna is considered to multiply wealth and bring luck to new ventures. Dhanteras is not just a festival, it is a reminder to invest wisely and invite abundance.”
Why Dhanteras 2025 Is Expected to Be Special
Dhanteras 2025 carries a special charm because both planet Venus and Moon are in favorable alignment, creating a strong combination for wealth and happiness. Astrologers believe that this year’s planetary positions make it one of the luckiest Dhanteras for business expansion and asset buying in recent years.
Moreover, the festive season coincides with record highs in gold prices, which indicates both investor confidence and a rush among households to secure long-term value through precious metals.
Gold and Silver Prices Ahead of Dhanteras
Gold prices have surged in major Indian cities ahead of the festival. In Mumbai, 10 grams of 24K gold has crossed Rs 1,34,000, setting a new record. In Delhi, the price remains close to Rs 1,33,500 per 10 grams, while in Chennai it stands slightly higher due to regional demand.
Silver has shown mixed movements, hovering around Rs 1,650 per 10 grams, after a brief correction earlier in the month. Traders expect a further rise during the Diwali week as festive demand peaks.
Jewellers across India report heavy bookings for ornaments and coins. However, digital alternatives are seeing even stronger growth. According to Economic Times data, gold and silver ETFs have delivered up to 44 percent returns in 2025, making them an attractive option for investors who prefer not to hold physical assets.
Five Smart Ways to Own Gold Without Holding It Physically
Many investors today are moving beyond traditional gold jewellery and exploring smarter, more secure investment options. Here are five popular ways to own gold digitally or financially without worrying about storage or purity:
- Gold ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds):
- These are traded on stock exchanges and reflect the real-time price of gold. They provide liquidity, transparency, and convenience.
- Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs):
- Issued by the Reserve Bank of India, SGBs pay an annual interest of 2.5 percent and can be redeemed at the prevailing market price after maturity.
- Digital Gold Platforms:
- Apps like Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe allow users to buy and sell gold online in small quantities. The metal is stored in secured vaults, making it ideal for small investors.
- Gold Mutual Funds:
- These invest in gold ETFs and offer the advantage of professional management. They are a good option for those looking to diversify their portfolio.
- Gold Savings Schemes by Jewellers:
- Several jewellers offer monthly deposit schemes that let you save for future jewellery purchases while locking in current prices.
Financial expert Shweta Mehra explains, “Owning gold today is not about keeping bars at home. It’s about integrating gold into your portfolio smartly through digital and financial channels. Dhanteras is a great reminder to invest in smarter, safer ways.”
Why People Still Prefer Physical Gold
Despite the popularity of digital gold, many Indians still value the emotional and cultural connection with physical gold. For generations, families have passed down gold jewellery as a symbol of love and stability. During Dhanteras, purchasing even a small coin or ornament is considered a sign of respect to Goddess Lakshmi.
Goldsmiths across India expect brisk sales this year, with many jewellers offering festive discounts and zero-making charge offers. From lightweight chains to antique temple jewellery, designs that reflect tradition and craftsmanship are in high demand.
Dhanteras 2025 Puja Rituals and Beliefs
On Dhanteras, devotees clean their homes, decorate entrances with rangoli and lamps, and perform Lakshmi and Dhanvantari puja. Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health, are both worshipped on this day.
It is believed that lighting lamps in the evening drives away negative energy and invites prosperity. People also buy new utensils, vehicles, and electronic items during this period as a mark of good luck.
Many households in India begin their Diwali shopping on Dhanteras, making it one of the busiest shopping days of the year both online and offline.
Final Thoughts: Wealth, Wisdom, and Wellbeing
Dhanteras is not only about purchasing metals but also about reflecting on how to use wealth wisely. As India moves toward a more digital economy, the meaning of “investment” is evolving. Buying gold physically is still sacred, but combining it with financial discipline through ETFs or bonds makes it even more rewarding.
As you light your first Diwali lamp this year, remember that prosperity shines brightest when it is balanced with wisdom and gratitude.
Happy Dhanteras 2025!