Question 1

When is Dhana Vratam observed?

Accepted Answer

Dhana Vratam falls on Pratipada, the first lunar day, of Shukla Paksha, the bright fortnight, in the lunar month of Margashirsha. The tithi current at sunrise governs the observance, so the Gregorian date changes each year and must be checked afresh.

Question 2

Is Dhana Vratam a full-day fast?

Accepted Answer

The verse prescribes a night observance, using the word naktam, which can indicate fasting during the day and eating only at night. It does not clearly require a complete waterless fast. Permitted foods and the exact night meal should be taken from the family or priestly tradition being followed.

Question 3

Which deity is worshipped on Dhana Vratam?

Accepted Answer

Vishnu is worshipped, and the text also prescribes homa, or offerings made into a sacred fire. A golden form associated with the fire-consumer, covered with two red garments, is to be presented to a Brahmin. The wording does not clearly identify the image's exact form.

Question 4

What is the benefit of Dhana Vratam?

Accepted Answer

Dhana Vratam is traditionally connected with prosperity in wealth and grain. Its verse also speaks of sins being burned by fire and honour in Vishnu's world. These are religious fruits promised by the text, not a guarantee of a particular financial result.

Question 5

How can Dhana Vratam be performed at home?

Accepted Answer

A simple household observance can include a stated intention, daytime restraint, Vishnu worship, and respectful charity at night. The complete textual prescription includes homa and the presentation of the golden, red-clothed object, so a priest should guide any performance that includes those rites.

Date	Tithi	Lunar month	Governing time
Mon, 2 Dec, 2024	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Fri, 21 Nov, 2025	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Wed, 9 Dec, 2026	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Thu, 10 Dec, 2026	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Mon, 29 Nov, 2027	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Fri, 17 Nov, 2028	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Thu, 6 Dec, 2029	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Tue, 26 Nov, 2030	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Mon, 15 Dec, 2031	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)
Fri, 3 Dec, 2032	ShuklaShukla Pratipada	Margashirsha	sunrise (udaya tithi)

Dhana Vratam

Dates by year