Dhanteras falls on Friday, 6 November 2026. It opens the five days of Diwali, and it is the one day of the year when buying something new for the home is considered a blessing in itself.

Most families buy gold or silver. But brass has an equally old place in Dhanteras tradition, and it is far easier on the budget. This guide lists 10 brass items that are traditionally bought on Dhanteras, what each one is believed to bring, and where to keep it once it is home.

Why people buy metal on Dhanteras

The name comes from Dhan (wealth) and Teras (the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight). It is celebrated on Trayodashi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik.

According to the story of the Samudra Manthan, Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and health, rose from the ocean on this day holding a pot of amrit. That is why Dhanteras is also called Dhanvantari Jayanti, and why buying a new metal vessel or object on this day is believed to invite health and prosperity into the home.

Why brass in particular

• It is linked to Lord Dhanvantari. Brass is traditionally described as his favoured metal, which makes it a natural Dhanteras choice.

• It lasts for generations. A brass diya or idol bought this year can be passed down to your children.

• It is used, not stored. Unlike a gold coin kept in a locker, brass items go straight into your pooja room and daily life.

• It is affordable. You can buy something meaningful for every budget.

10 auspicious brass items to buy this Dhanteras

1. Kuber Deepak

Lord Kuber is the treasurer of wealth, and he is worshipped alongside Goddess Lakshmi on Dhanteras. A brass Kuber Deepak lit on Dhanteras evening is one of the most traditional purchases of the day. The Swastikkripa Kuber Deepak Set of 2 comes in a premium gift box, so you can keep one pair and gift another.

Where to keep it: In the pooja room, or at the north side of the home, the direction of Kuber. · Budget: Within ₹1,000

2. Brass Shankh

The shankh emerged from the same Samudra Manthan as Goddess Lakshmi, which is why it is considered her sibling and a symbol of abundance. Placing a new shankh in the mandir on Dhanteras is believed to invite her blessings. See our 550 g and 750 g brass shankhs.

Where to keep it: On a small stand in the pooja room, opening facing up. · Budget: ₹3,000 and above

3. Ganesha Idol

Lakshmi and Ganesha are worshipped together on Diwali night, so many families buy a new Ganesha idol on Dhanteras, two days before. The Siddhivinayak Ganesha sits in a calm blessing posture and suits most home temples.

Where to keep it: In the pooja room, ideally in the northeast. · Budget: Within ₹3,000

4. Brass Vastu Tortoise

The tortoise stands for steady, lasting wealth, the kind that grows slowly and does not disappear. That makes it a meaningful Dhanteras purchase for anyone starting a new job, business or home. The Kurma Brass Vastu Tortoise is inspired by Lord Vishnu's Kurma avatar.

Where to keep it: Facing north, on a work desk or in the living room. · Budget: Within ₹1,000

5. Brass Elephant Pair

Goddess Lakshmi is often shown in her Gajalakshmi form, flanked by two elephants. A brass elephant pair brought home on Dhanteras is believed to bring stability and prosperity. The Swarna Saathi Elephant Pair is compact enough for any shelf.

Where to keep it: In the living room or near the main entrance. · Budget: Within ₹2,000

6. Pooja Bell

The sound of a bell at the start of pooja is believed to clear negative energy and focus the mind. If your mandir does not yet have a good brass bell, Dhanteras is the day to add one. The Nandi Bell has Nandi carved on the handle and a long, clear ring.

Where to keep it: On the left side of the mandir, within easy reach during aarti. · Budget: Within ₹2,000

7. Brass Owl

The owl, or Uluka, is Goddess Lakshmi's vahan. Keeping a brass owl at home is believed to welcome her and to bring wisdom in handling money. The Pure Brass Owl Figurine is one of our most-loved small pieces. Read more in our brass owl guide.

Where to keep it: In a study, home office or near your locker. · Budget: Within ₹1,000

8. Vakratunda Ganesha

For families who want a larger, more detailed Ganesha to mark a big year, the Vakratunda Ganesha is carved in fine detail with an antique finish. Vakratunda is the form of Ganesha prayed to for removing obstacles.

Where to keep it: In the pooja room or facing the main entrance from inside. · Budget: ₹3,000 and above

9. Mother of Pearl Tortoise

If you are buying a Dhanteras gift for family, this is one of our most popular choices. The Brass Tortoise with Mother of Pearl Inlay combines the tortoise's meaning with a shell inlay that catches the diya light beautifully.

Where to keep it: In the living room, kept dry. · Budget: Within ₹2,000

10. Brass Tree of Life

Not every home keeps religious pieces in the living room. The Vriksha Brass Tree of Life stands for growth and family bonds, and it works as a Dhanteras purchase for anyone who prefers decor.

Where to keep it: On a console, bookshelf or entryway table. · Budget: ₹3,000 and above

Quick guide: what each item is believed to bring

What people traditionally avoid buying on Dhanteras

Alongside the list of things to buy, many families follow a few long-held customs about what not to bring home on this day:

• Iron items, which are traditionally linked with Shani rather than Lakshmi.

• Sharp objects such as knives and scissors.

• Glass items, which break easily.

• Black-coloured items, which are considered inauspicious for a festive purchase.

• Empty vessels. If you buy a pot or bowl, fill it with a little water, rice or sweets before bringing it inside.

How to welcome a new brass item home on Dhanteras

1. Wipe it clean with a soft, dry cloth.

2. Place it in the pooja room first, even if it will live elsewhere in the house.

3. Offer a little haldi-kumkum, rice and a flower during the evening Dhanteras pooja.

4. Light a diya near it. Many families also light a Yama Deepam, a diya placed outside the home facing south, for the protection of the household.

5. Move it to its place the next morning.

Order in time for Dhanteras

Every Swastikkripa piece is pure brass, handcrafted by artisans, with free shipping across India. Festive orders get busy in the final week, so we suggest ordering by [date] to receive your pieces before 6 November.

Frequently asked questions

When is Dhanteras in 2026?

Dhanteras falls on Friday, 6 November 2026. Check your local panchang for the exact puja muhurat in your city.

Why is brass bought on Dhanteras?

Dhanteras honours Lord Dhanvantari, who rose from the ocean holding a pot of amrit. Brass is traditionally described as his favoured metal, so a new brass item is believed to invite health and prosperity.

What is the most auspicious thing to buy on Dhanteras?

Gold, silver and brass are all considered auspicious. Among brass items, a Kuber Deepak, a Ganesha idol and a shankh are the most traditional choices.

Is brass as auspicious as gold on Dhanteras?

Yes. Brass has its own place in Dhanteras tradition through its link with Lord Dhanvantari, and it is a meaningful choice at a fraction of the cost of gold.

What should not be bought on Dhanteras?

Tradition advises against iron items, sharp objects, glass, black-coloured items and empty vessels.

Can I buy Dhanteras items online?

Yes. Order a few days early so the items reach you before Dhanteras. Swastikkripa ships free across India.

Bring home a piece of heritage this Dhanteras

A brass diya, idol or tortoise bought this Dhanteras will still be in your home when your children celebrate their own. Choose the one that feels right for your family.

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