WHAT IS IT: It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi as well as Dhanvantri, the lord of Ayurveda appeared on this day during the churning of the Ocean. They are both worshipped on Dhan Teras for wealth and health. Dhan Teras marks the first of the 5-day Diwali celebrations / puja.

LITERAL MEANING: Dhan = wealth, Teras = 13th Tithi (lunar day).

DATE: October 20, 2014 (USA) / October 21, 2014 (India)

PUJA TIME: Pradosh kaal, puja should be performed within 2 hours and 24 minutes after Sunset. Best time within this 2 hour 24 minute window for puja is when a Fixed sign (especially Taurus) is rising on the Eastern horizon. For the west coast in USA, this time is between 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM.