Dhanteras is one of the most important festivals for shopping in India. This year, the festival will be celebrated on November 6, 2026. On this day, people buy gold, silver, utensils and other items while praying for wealth, happiness and prosperity. However, according to traditional religious beliefs, some things should be avoided during Dhanteras shopping. Iron, glass items and sharp objects are among the things considered inauspicious. These beliefs have been followed by many families for generations. Here is why these items are traditionally avoided on this special day.
Why Iron Is Avoided
According to religious beliefs, buying iron items on Dhanteras is considered inauspicious because iron is associated with Shani Dev. It is traditionally believed that bringing iron objects home on this day may invite difficulties and problems. For this reason, many people avoid buying iron utensils, tools and other iron products during the festival. They believe that following this tradition helps protect their homes from negative influences. While these beliefs are part of religious customs, people follow them according to their faith and family traditions.
Belief Behind Avoiding Glass
Glass utensils, decorative pieces and other glass products are also traditionally avoided on Dhanteras. According to popular astrological beliefs, glass is associated with Rahu, which is considered an inauspicious influence in certain traditions. Some people believe that bringing glass items home on this day may increase negativity and create problems. This is why glass products are often left out of the shopping list during the festival. Instead, families prefer to purchase items that are traditionally linked with prosperity and good fortune.
Why Sharp Objects Are Avoided
People are also advised against buying knives, scissors, needles, nails and pins on Dhanteras. According to traditional beliefs, sharp objects are associated with conflict and tension. Some customs suggest that purchasing such items on this auspicious occasion may create disagreements among family members. Similar beliefs are also found in Vastu traditions. As a result, many families avoid adding sharp objects to their Dhanteras shopping list and prefer to focus on items considered symbols of happiness and prosperity.
What Should You Buy Instead?
Gold, silver and utensils are among the most popular purchases during Dhanteras. Many families buy these items as a symbol of wealth, good luck and prosperity. Some people also purchase household goods according to their needs and religious beliefs. The festival is associated with welcoming happiness and abundance into the home. However, there is no single shopping rule followed by everyone. Customs can differ from one family and region to another, so people generally make purchases according to their faith and traditions.
Following Dhanteras Traditions
Dhanteras is not just about shopping but also about prayers, faith and family traditions. People worship Goddess Lakshmi and seek blessings for a happy and prosperous year. Those who follow traditional shopping rules avoid iron, glass and sharp objects on this day. These beliefs are passed down through generations and remain an important part of the festival for many households. Ultimately, people celebrate Dhanteras according to their customs, while hoping for peace, happiness and prosperity in their lives.
