Today, Saturday, October 18, 2025, marks the auspicious festival of Dhanteras, the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration. On this occasion, buying gold and silver is not just a tradition but a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. This year, however, the metal market is buzzing more than usual because gold prices hit a record high in global markets in the previous session.
Market analysts suggest that due to this strong international signal and the immense festive demand, gold and silver prices in the Indian bullion market are likely to see an uptick today.
Why the Demand for Gold and Silver Soars
The custom of buying metal on Dhanteras is rooted in deep religious and economic beliefs. People hold that any investment made on this day multiplies thirteenfold.
- Gold: It is considered the embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi and a symbol of purity. It’s the safest investment for financial stability.
- Silver: Associated with Lord Dhanvantari and the moon, silver is believed to bring peace and coolness. Buying silver utensils ensures good health and abundance of food and wealth in the home.
Three Key Reasons for the Record Rally
The spike anticipated in the Indian market today is driven by both domestic demand and international events:
1. Record Global Prices
In the last trading session, international gold prices reached unprecedented levels. This surge is primarily fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions (particularly in the Middle East) and a weakening US Dollar. Whenever global instability rises, investors shift funds away from equity markets and the dollar toward ‘safe haven’ assets like gold, driving its prices up. The Indian market closely tracks this global trend.
2. Immense Festive Demand
Dhanteras is the biggest shopping day of the year. Across the country, from small towns to major metros, people rush to buy at least a small piece of gold or a silver coin, according to their capacity. This sudden, collective burst of demand naturally keeps prices at elevated levels.
3. Expectations from the US Federal Reserve
Market optimism is growing that the US Federal Reserve may adopt a softer stance on interest rate hikes. When interest rates are stabilized or lowered, the US Dollar weakens. A weaker dollar makes gold more attractive compared to other assets, consequently impacting Indian prices positively.
What to Do While Shopping?
- Check Hallmark: Always ensure the purity of the gold by checking the HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) mark and obtaining a proper bill and purity certificate.
- Other Auspicious Buys: If the budget for gold or silver is tight, you should still buy brass or copper utensils, whole coriander seeds, or a broom (a symbol of Lakshmi).
- Don’t Bring Home Empty: If you buy new utensils, do not bring them home empty. Fill them with rice or sweets before entering the house.
- Yama Deepam: In the evening, light a lamp (Diya) with oil or ghee outside your main entrance, facing the South direction, in the name of Yamaraj (the God of Death). This is done to ward off untimely death.
Conclusion: Buying metal on Dhanteras is more a matter of faith than just investment. Even with the price rally, a purchase made with sincerity and adherence to the auspicious timings will invite happiness, prosperity, and good health into your home for the entire year.
What are you planning to purchase this Dhanteras?
