Which Hindu god of health and Ayurveda is worshipped on Dhanteras?

Dhanvantari is the Hindu god of health and Ayurveda worshipped on Dhanteras.

Dhanvantari is described as the physician of the devas and is regarded as an avatar of Vishnu. In Hindu tradition, he is closely associated with Ayurveda, the traditional system of Indian medicine. Devotees worship him on Dhanteras while seeking health, healing, and protection from disease.

A major origin story places Dhanvantari in the Samudra Manthana, the churning of the cosmic ocean by the devas and asuras. According to the legend, he emerged carrying a pot of amrita, the nectar of immortality. This image connects him both with medicine and with the restoration of life and well-being.

Dhanteras is the thirteenth lunar day of the dark fortnight and marks the beginning of Diwali in most of India. The day is also associated with cleansing, new purchases, Lakshmi worship, and lamps dedicated to Yama. Dhanvantari should not be confused with Kubera, the treasurer of the gods, or Vishvakarman, the divine architect. Yama is linked with death, not Ayurveda.