Dhanteras is the auspicious day in the Diwali festival and falls on the first day of this five day festival. On this day people worship the goddess Lakshmi and buy items related to the precious metals like gold, silver are bought from the market. In the evening major prayers related to the lord Ganesha and Maa Lakshmi is carried out. And for this there are special timings for carrying out the prayers. These auspicious timings are called as ‘Subha Muhurat’.
Usually people do all the preparation work for the prayers, one day in advance. Some of the common things that are brought from the market are flowers, idols of maa Lakshmi, decorating material etc. And due to this market are giving different looks as decorating material hanging outside the shops. And Dhanteras Puja is of large religious importance in the Hindu religion. As per the legends, those who worship goddess Lakshmi with pure heart and if she is impressed by their worship, then they are showered with the prosperity and wealth.
But the auspicious time to pray is specific every year. This time is decided as per the Hindu calendar. Since Dhanteras falls on the 13th day after the full moon, its Muhurat of prayer is decided as per that only.
For this 2015 year, Subh Muhurat for the prayers is Dhanteras Puja Muhurat
Dhanteras Puja Muhurta = 17:50 to 19:06
Duration = 1 Hour 15 Mins
Pradosh Kaal = 17:26 to 20:06
Vrishabha Kaal = 17:50 to 19:46
But people should check from their local temples about the right timings, as these changes as per the region.