Diwali 2025: Where To Place 13 Diyas On Dhanteras? Significance of Each Diya

The grand festival of Diwali begins with Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi. On this day, devotees worship Lord Dhanvantari (the God of Health), Lord Kuber (the God of Wealth), and Goddess Lakshmi. Along with buying gold, utensils, or new items, one very important tradition is lighting 13 diyas (diyas) at night.

It is believed that these 13 diyas not only invite wealth and prosperity into the home but also protect the family from untimely death and negative energies. Each diya has its own specific placement and spiritual significance.

Here’s the proper order and meaning of lighting the 13 diyas on Dhanteras night:

1. First Diya – For Yama (Lord of Death)

On Dhanteras evening, once all family members have returned home, light the first diya outside the house near the garbage area, facing south (the direction of Yama).  This diya, usually lit with mustard oil and four wicks, is believed to protect the family from sudden or untimely death.

2. Second Diya – For Goddess Lakshmi

The second diya should be placed in the puja room before the idols of Goddess Lakshmi and other deities. Lighting this ghee diya with a strand of saffron is considered auspicious and attracts divine blessings and prosperity. 

3. Third Diya – At the Main Entrance

Keep the third diya at the main entrance of the house. It helps maintain the flow of positive energy and keeps the household safe from evil eyes and negativity.

4. Fourth Diya – Near the Tulsi Plant

Place the fourth diya near the Tulsi (holy basil) plant, which is considered the abode of Goddess Lakshmi. This diya brings wealth, happiness, and harmony to the home.

5. Fifth Diya – On the Roof or Highest Point

Light the fifth diya on the roof or highest point of your home. It symbolizes protection from evil forces and removes Vastu defects.

6. Sixth Diya – Under the Peepal Tree

Lighting a mustard oil diya under a Peepal tree is believed to please Goddess Lakshmi and eliminate problems related to health and finances. 

7. Seventh Diya – Nearby Temple

Light the seventh diya at any temple near your home. It expresses one’s dedication to spiritual values and divine faith.

8. Eighth Diya – Near Garbage or Store Room

Placing a diya near the garbage area or store room is said to drive away poverty and misfortune, inviting abundance into the home. 

9. Ninth Diya – Outside the Washroom

Keep a diya outside the bathroom or toilet to prevent the flow of negative energy in the house.

10. Tenth Diya – On Windows

Light the tenth diya on the windows of home. This diya acts as a shield against dark and harmful energies, keeping the home environment peaceful and protected. 

11. Eleventh Diya – In Kitchen

Keep a diya in the kitchen. It is believed to prevent food scarcity and hunger.

12. Twelfth Diya – Under a Bel Tree

Lighting a diya under a Bel (Bael) tree on Dhanteras night is said to bring wealth, growth, and good fortune.

13. Thirteenth Diya – At the Crossroad

The final diya should be lit at a nearby crossroads (chauraha). It is believed to spread positivity and remove obstacles from one’s life.

Lighting these 13 diyas with devotion on Dhanteras night is said to please Lord Yama and Goddess Lakshmi alike, ensuring protection, prosperity, and well-being for the entire family. 

Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.