The five-day Diwali festival is not just about lights, prayers and celebrations. Shopping is also an important part of the festivities, with many families bringing home gold, silver, utensils, decorative items and other auspicious things. According to Hindu religious traditions, certain purchases are considered especially शुभ during Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali and Diwali.
In 2026, Dhanteras will be celebrated on November 6, while Diwali will fall on November 8. If you are planning your festive shopping, here is a day-wise guide to what you can buy during the celebrations.
Dhanteras 2026: What Should You Buy?
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is considered one of the most auspicious days for shopping. It is traditionally associated with Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari. Buying new items on this day is believed to symbolise prosperity, good health and fresh beginnings.
Here are some popular things to purchase on Dhanteras.
1. Gold and Silver
Buying gold and silver is one of the most popular Dhanteras traditions. People often purchase gold jewellery, silver coins or silver utensils according to their budget.
Some families also buy coins featuring Goddess Lakshmi or Lord Ganesha and keep them in their puja room for Diwali worship.
The purchase does not have to be expensive. Even a small silver item can be chosen to observe the tradition.
2. Brass, Copper and Steel Utensils
Bringing home new utensils on Dhanteras is another widely followed custom. Brass, copper and stainless-steel vessels are commonly purchased on this day.
The tradition is associated with prosperity and abundance. In some households, newly purchased utensils are filled with rice, grains, sweets or water before being used.
3. A New Broom (Jhadu)
A new broom is considered a symbolic Dhanteras purchase in many households. Religious beliefs associate the broom with Goddess Lakshmi and the removal of poverty and negativity.
Buying a broom is also connected with cleaning the home before Diwali and preparing it to welcome prosperity.
4. Whole Coriander Seeds and Yellow Cowrie Shells
Some families follow the tradition of purchasing whole coriander seeds and yellow cowrie shells on Dhanteras. These items are traditionally associated with wealth, abundance and good fortune.
They may also be kept for use during Diwali Lakshmi Puja, according to family customs.
5. Vehicles and Electronic Items
In recent years, many people have started purchasing cars, motorcycles, scooters, mobile phones, televisions and other electronic goods on Dhanteras.
The day is considered auspicious for bringing new things home and beginning something new. However, purchases should always be planned according to personal needs and financial capacity.
Chhoti Diwali 2026: What Should You Buy?
Chhoti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is observed a day before the main Diwali celebration. In 2026, it will fall on November 7.
This day is generally associated with completing household preparations and decorating the home before Diwali.
1. Earthen Diyas
Buying मिट्टी के दीये (earthen lamps) is a traditional part of Chhoti Diwali preparations. These lamps are used to illuminate homes, courtyards, balconies and entrances during the festival.
Clay diyas also represent the traditional spirit of Diwali, the festival of lights.
2. Rangoli and Decorative Items
You can purchase rangoli colours, flower garlands, torans, decorative hangings and other festive items.
These decorations are used to make the home welcoming and beautiful for the celebrations.
3. New Clothes
Wearing new clothes during Diwali is a popular tradition. Chhoti Diwali can be a convenient day to purchase festive outfits for yourself and your family.
Diwali 2026: What Should You Buy on the Main Festival?
Diwali will be celebrated on November 8, 2026. The festival is especially associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. Families pray for happiness, peace and prosperity and prepare their homes for Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja.
Here are some items traditionally purchased for the main Diwali celebration.
1. New Idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha
Many families purchase new idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for Diwali worship.
Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped as the deity of wealth and prosperity, while Lord Ganesha is associated with wisdom and the removal of obstacles. The idols can be selected according to the family’s पूजा tradition and preference.
2. Puja Thali and Kalash
A new puja thali, kalash and other worship essentials can also be purchased for Diwali.
Items such as roli, akshat, flowers and other puja materials can be arranged in advance to make the worship preparations easier.
3. Diyas and Candles
Diwali is known as the festival of lights. Earthen diyas, decorative lamps and candles are purchased to illuminate homes and पूजा spaces.
Traditional clay lamps remain an important part of Diwali celebrations.
4. Gold and Silver Coins
Some families also purchase gold or silver coins on Diwali. These coins may be included in Lakshmi Puja as part of the household tradition.
The purchase can be made according to one’s budget and preference.
Do You Need to Spend a Lot on Dhanteras and Diwali Shopping?
No. The significance of Dhanteras and Diwali shopping is not limited to expensive purchases. Buying gold or silver is a popular custom, but families can also choose affordable items such as a small utensil, a broom, earthen diyas or puja essentials.
The most important thing is to celebrate with devotion, happiness and financial responsibility. Avoid unnecessary spending simply because it is a festive shopping occasion.
Conclusion
Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali and Diwali each have their own shopping traditions. While gold, silver, utensils and brooms are commonly purchased on Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali is associated with diyas, decorations and new clothes. On the main Diwali day, families often purchase Lakshmi-Ganesh idols, puja essentials, lamps and coins.
These customs reflect the hope for prosperity, happiness and positive beginnings. However, shopping traditions can vary between families and regions, so people can follow the practices that are meaningful to them and suit their budget.
Editorial Review Note
Written by Religion World — Bhavya Srivastava is the founder of Religion World and a veteran journalist with over 18 years of experience across broadcast, print, and digital media. A founding member of the International Association of Religion Journalists (IARJ), he has spent much of his career reporting on and producing content about religion, faith, and spirituality. View full profile →.
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