Prime Minister Narendra Modi has greeted the nation on the occasion of Dhanteras, first of the five-day Diwali festival.
"Greetings on Dhanteras. May Lord Dhanvantari bless us with prosperity, joy and good health," said Prime Minister Modi.
On Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanvantari Triodasi, the Goddess of wealth - is worshiped to provide prosperity and well being.
It is also regarded as an auspicious occasion to buy gold and silver in order to herald prosperity.