An astrologer from Deoghar, Jharkhand said that people must not buy brooms in odd numbers on Dhanteras.
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the start of the five-day-long Diwali festivities. This year, it falls on November 10. On this day, people purchase gold, silver, gold, other ornaments and brooms as well. As per beliefs, purchasing a broom brings the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi with it.
An astrologer from Deoghar, Jharkhand, Pandit Nandkishor Mudgal told that people must be careful about the number of brooms they purchase on Dhanteras. He said that people must not buy brooms in odd numbers. They should also purchase brooms in pairs only because it is considered to bring good luck for them.
The astrologer added that Goddess Lakshmi should also be worshipped on Dhanteras during the Pradosh period. The perfect time for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi will be from 05.29 PM to 08.07 PM. The twilight period on the 13th day during the waxing and waning phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha) is the Pradosham period.
There are other beliefs as well that support the custom of purchasing a groom on Dhanteras. Purchasing a broom on Dhanteras is also said to help an individual get rid of all dues and bring happiness and prosperity. To keep the house clean, brooms are regularly used in every family. Cleanliness is said to attract the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Some tips to be kept in mind while buying the broom on Dhanteras are-
1. Select a broom with a natural fibre head, such as grass or coconut leaves.
2. Never choose brooms with synthetic fibre heads because these are not considered to be as auspicious.
3. Tie a red thread around the broom before bringing it into the house. This is believed to guard the house from evil spirits.
4. Keep the broom in a clean and dry place. These places can be the kitchen or the storeroom.
Besides brooms, buying metal or clay idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh is considered to bring good luck. In the evening, four clay lamps are lit and placed in front of the main entrance of the house. Donating lamps is considered an important custom.