The festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, begins with the day of Dhanteras, where people worship Dhanvantari, the god of health and wealth. This day is marked by purchasing new items, particularly metal objects, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. Families clean and decorate their homes in preparation for the festivities that follow. The lighting of diyas (small oil lamps) symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Dhanteras sets the stage for the elaborate celebrations of Diwali that follow, focusing on joy and renewal.