Akshaya Tritiya, celebrated tomorrow, is an important festival. It is an auspicious day for new beginnings
RAMESH SAVAIKAR
Akshaya Tritiya, is a festival celebrated in India by Hindus on the third day of Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Hindu month of Vaishakha. It is an auspicious day associated with Lord Vishnu, considered favourable for various religious activities in Hindu tradition. It is also believed that buying gold brings luck and prosperity.
The term ‘Akshaya’ in Sanskrit signifies infinite or eternal, symbolising boundless fortune and prosperity. Additionally, it serves as a reminder to honour and remember our ancestors as we progress in life. The festival is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe within the holy trinity. According to Hindu mythology, this day marks the beginning of Treta Yuga (the second of four ages), coinciding with Parshuram Jayanti, a celebration of Parshurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This day was also chosen by sage Vyasa to dictate the epic Mahabharata to Lord Ganesha.
Devotees observe various rituals such as taking a dip in holy water, performing ‘puja’ with ‘abhisheka’ of idols of Vishnu, Ganesha, and Lakshmi. They offer ‘dhoop’ and flowers, chant aartis and bhajans and say prayers. Some observe a day-long fast, while elaborate rituals are performed in temples by priests.
In the eastern region of India, Akshaya Tritiya signifies the commencement of the harvest season with prayers for a bountiful yield. Devotees throng to the ghats of Haridwar and Varanasi to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges, performing yajnas, pujas, and acts of charity.
Akshaya Tritiya is also known as Aksha Teej, and is celebrated by Jains as a spring festival. It derives its name from the third lunar day of Vasant Rutu or Vaishakha in Panchang (Hindu calendar). In Jainism, this day holds significance as some followers conclude their year-long penance or ‘tapasya’ by breaking fast with sugarcane juice. Devotees apply sandalwood paste to the idol of Lord Krishna in the belief that the ritual helps grant entry into heaven upon death.
On this day, people venture into new businesses and jobs. Also, many who buy homes celebrate Griha Pravesh (housewarming ceremony), and perform religious rituals. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi for their blessings. As per Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha are also worshipped on this auspicious festival day.