INDIA: Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, is an important Hindu festival celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the Vaishakha lunar month (April-May).
Hindus and Jains consider the day auspicious, and they believe that any new venture started on this day will be successful and bring good fortune. The festival’s long and fascinating history dates back to ancient times.
According to Hindu scriptures, it was on this day that Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, incarnated as Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, and destroyed the evil Kshatriya rulers, who had become tyrannical and were causing suffering to the people.
Another legend associated with the day is that of the Pandavas, the five brothers from the epic Mahabharata.
According to the scripture, when the Pandavas were serving their exile, they received the Akshaya Patra, a vessel that would provide an unlimited supply of food, on this day from Lord Krishna. The vessel helped them to sustain themselves during their exile in the forest.
The word Akshaya, in Sanskrit, means ‘eternal’ or ‘never diminishing’. According to beliefs, anything started on this day will never diminish and continue to grow in value. This belief is why many people start new business ventures, invest, or buy property on Akshaya Tritiya.
People in different parts of India celebrate the festival in different ways
In the northern and western parts of India, people usually buy gold, silver, or other precious metals on this day. They believe buying these metals on Akshaya Tritiya will bring good luck and prosperity. Many jewellers offer special discounts and schemes on this day to attract customers.
In southern India, people usually perform puja (worship) of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. They also prepare unique dishes like Payasam, a sweet dish made with rice, milk, and sugar, and offer it as prasad (offering) to the deities.
In some parts of India, especially in Maharashtra, people celebrate the day by planting new crops or starting new construction projects. They make investments on the day because anything started on Akshaya Tritiya is believed to grow and prosper.
In recent years, the festival has gained popularity among non-resident Indians (NRIs) as well. Many NRIs choose to invest in real estate or buy gold today, believing it will bring good fortune.
Akshaya Tritiya is a day when people start new ventures, make investments, and buy properties, hoping to bring them success and wealth.
Whether buying gold or silver, performing puja, or starting new projects, Hindus celebrate the day with great enthusiasm and joy.
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