Raashii Khanna on Dhanteras: Family Rituals, Yama Deepam and the Gold Bangles Passed Down the Generations

Dhanteras takes its name from dhan, wealth, and teras, the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight. It falls today, and Raashii Khanna plans to spend it with her family.

"No matter how hectic my schedule is, I try to be home for Dhanteras and Diwali," she says. For her, the day is less about shopping than about family, blessings and a set of rituals her household repeats every year.

Health and wealth, together

"Dhanteras, for me, is about inviting abundance and prosperity into your life," she says. "I love how it brings health and wealth together."

The evening Lakshmi puja is central. "Pradosh Kaal, the period after sunset, is considered auspicious for the prayers. We worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, seeking prosperity, good health and auspicious beginnings."

Yama Deepam

One ritual has grown more meaningful to her with time. "I have also come to find the tradition of Yama Deepam particularly meaningful. A diya is lit facing south as a prayer for the well-being and longevity of the family. Ultimately, these rituals are about seeking blessings for the people you love."

The bangles

Her most treasured possession is not something she bought. "A set of gold bangles that has been passed down through generations is closest to my heart. They originally belonged to my great-great-grandmother, and there is a tradition of passing them on to the next girl in the family. They have now come to me."

"There's something incredibly special about wearing jewellery that carries the memories, history and blessings of generations of women in your family."

Buying gold, together

Her family buys gold every year, whether a kada, a coin or a pair of earrings. "The joy lies in making that purchase together," she says.

Her approach is practical rather than flashy. "I consider the purity of the gold, the craftsmanship and the design. I gravitate towards classic pieces that I can wear for years rather than something that is trendy at the moment." She adds that the day does not demand extravagance: "Even bringing home a small gold or silver coin is considered auspicious."

"Gold has always held a special place in Indian culture. It is not just an investment; it also represents heritage and permanence."

From sweets to symbolism

As a child, she says, Dhanteras simply meant something new and plenty of sweets. "It's lovely how something you remember so fondly from childhood takes on a deeper meaning as you grow up. You begin to understand that buying something new is rooted in the belief that it invites good fortune and abundance."

What's next for her

Khanna has a busy slate: Dharman, alongside Rajinikanth; Mauja Hi Mauja, with Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, which she recently finished shooting; and Farzi 2, in which she returns as Megha Vyas.

For another star's take on tradition and wealth, see our piece on Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's net worth.

Frequently asked questions

How does Raashii Khanna celebrate Dhanteras?

At home with her family, following their annual rituals, including the evening Lakshmi puja during Pradosh Kaal, worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.

What is Raashii Khanna's most treasured piece of jewellery?

A set of gold bangles that belonged to her great-great-grandmother and is passed to the next girl in the family.

What is Yama Deepam?

As Khanna describes it, a diya lit facing south as a prayer for the well-being and longevity of the family.

What are Raashii Khanna's upcoming films?

Dharman with Rajinikanth, Mauja Hi Mauja with Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, and Farzi 2.

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Kenneth Hopkins is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of AltBollywood. Indofuturist, posthumanist and unapologetically Indocentric, he describes himself as an epimemeticist, a swaraji, a freakonomist, a lexicographer and a cartochronicler, mapping the ideas, words and quiet shifts that shape Indian entertainment. Follow him on Instagram at @kennethhopkins.