Dhanteras 2026: Why Do People Buy Whole Coriander Seeds on Dhanteras?

The five-day Diwali festival begins with Dhanteras. It is considered an auspicious day for shopping. According to tradition, whoever buys gold, silver, jewellery, utensils, vehicles, houses, electronic gadgets, or any other item on this day will see it multiply by thirteen. But did you know buying whole coriander seeds (sabut dhaniya) on Dhanteras is equally auspicious? Learn why people buy coriander seeds on Dhanteras and what to do with them after the festival.

Dhanteras on November 6

Before you head out shopping, know when Dhanteras falls in 2026. According to Hindu Panchang, Dhanteras is on Friday, November 6, 2026. This festival falls on the Trayodashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in Kartik month. It marks the start of the five-day Diwali celebrations.

To learn more about the auspicious shopping muhurat, puja rituals, significance, rules, and legends associated with the festival, click on Dhanteras 2026.

Why Do People Buy Coriander Seeds on Dhanteras?

Traditional beliefs indicate that shopping and performing religious rituals on Dhanteras bring happiness, prosperity, and good fortune to the home and family. This is the reason people buy something or another, according to their financial capacity, on this day.

Among them, coriander seeds are also one of the many items considered auspicious on Dhanteras. Coriander seeds are also associated with bringing in wealth, happiness, and prosperity. Devotees offer them to Goddess Lakshmi during worship.

The interesting part is that the Hindi word ‘Dhaniya’ comes from the word “Dhan”, which means wealth. Symbolically, a tiny coriander seed can grow into a lush green plant when sown in soil; it is considered a symbol of wealth, abundance, growth, and prosperity in life. This is why buying coriander seeds on Dhanteras has been a tradition for a long time. 

What Should You Do With Coriander Seeds Bought on Dhanteras?

People often wonder what to do with coriander seeds after buying them on this festival. Get to know traditional practices related to this item. 

• Offer them to Goddess Lakshmi: After buying coriander seeds on Dhanteras, offer them to Goddess Lakshmi during puja.
• Keep them safe: After the puja, tie them in a red or yellow cloth and place them in your locker or safe the following day. According to popular beliefs, this helps maintain the steady flow of wealth.
• Prepare prasad: In other traditions, coriander seeds offered to Goddess Lakshmi are mixed with jaggery to make Dhaniya-Gur prasad. Family members then consume and distribute this prasad.
• Sow the seeds in a pot: After the festival, instead of throwing away the coriander seeds, you should sow them. Within a few days, it may grow into a fresh green coriander plant. According to popular belief, as the plant grows, so does an individual’s wealth. However, if the seeds do not sprout or turn yellow, it is symbolically a sign to be cautious with finances.

If you are facing financial difficulties and want personalised guidance, you can talk to an astrologer and tell them your concerns.