October 23: Hindus across the country observed the festival of Dhanteras on Saturday by purchasing new items made of gold, silver, copper, and other metals.    
As part of the Tihar festival celebrations, the items purchased on the day of Dhanteras are used during the Lakshmi Pooja held on the new moon day in the month of Kartik (mid-October to mid-November). There is a traditional belief that worship performed in this way will please the goddess of wealth Lakshmi who will continue to bless the family.    
There is also a tradition of buying gold and silver ornaments on the day of Dhanteras. Due to this religious belief there is usually a rush of people buying utensils and jewelry. Known by names like Deepawali, Tihar, Yamapanchak, this festival is the second biggest festival celebrated by Nepalis after the Dashain festival.    
The celebration of the Tihar festival this year started on Saturday with the lighting of homes, commercial establishments and other places. According to Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, although Yamapanchak started on Saturday, Kaag Tihar falls on Sunday. -- RSS