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Akshaya Tritiya is a highly revered and auspicious day in India for Hindus and Jains alike. "Akshaya" signifies an everlasting, unending, and abundant flow of good fortune, prosperity, and success, which never diminishes. Any auspicious activity commenced on this day is bound to succeed and bring lasting benefits. The festival is celebrated annually on the Hindu calendar's third lunar day of Vaishakha (April/May).

The significance of Akshaya Tritiya lies in its power to usher in positive transformations and new beginnings. This day is ideal for weddings, starting a new business, buying property, or investing. Hindus and Jains believe that the blessings of the almighty are abundant on this day and that any good deeds will be rewarded. The festival is also known as Akti or Akha Teej, and it falls on the third lunar day (tithi) of the Vaisakha month's bright half (Shukla Paksha). The word "Tritiya" in Sanskrit means "third phase of the moon," while "Akshaya" signifies "never decreasing" in the sense of "prosperity, hope, joy, success." The day is believed to be the beginning of continuous wealth and success.

Today, people observe various rituals and customs, such as donating to the needy, offering prayers to deities, fasting, and conducting religious ceremonies. The festival's celebration varies across regions, but the underlying essence remains to seek blessings and bask in the abundance of good fortune.

History Of Akshaya Tritiya

Hindu Traditions Of Akshaya Tritiya

The Pandava princes were starving during their exile in the jungle due to a lack of food, and their wife, Draupadi, was upset by this because she could not show their guests traditional hospitality. The god Surya answered Yudhishthira's prayer by giving him this bowl, which would stay full until Draupadi fed all of their guests. Yudhishthira was the eldest Pandava. The magical bowl known as Akshaya Patra was made invincible for Draupadi by Krishna during Durvasa's visit so that it would always be filled with food of their choosing, even enough to satisfy the entire universe if necessary. Hindus believe that Parasurama, the sixth avatar of the god Vishnu, was born on Akshaya Tritiya. Within Vaishnava temples, he is respected. The holiday is occasionally referred to as Parasurama Jayanti by those who celebrate it in Parasurama's honour. Others, conversely, concentrate their adoration on Krishna, Vishnu's eighth avatar.

One tale states that during Akshaya Tritiya, the sage Vyasa began reciting the Hindu epic Mahabharata to the god Ganesha. According to a different tale, this day marked the river Ganges' descent to earth. After closing during the snowy winters of the Himalayan regions, the Yamunotri Temple and Gangotri Temple are reopened on the auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya during the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage. On Akshaya Tritya's Abhijit Muhurat, the temples are opened.

The holy festival of Akshaya Tritiya marks the opening of the Yamunotri Temple and the Gangotri Temple.

The day also commemorates Sudama's visit to his childhood buddy Krishna in Dwaraka, when he was granted free wealth as a blessing. On this lucky day, Kubera is thought to have appointed the deity of wealth.

Akshaya Tritiya is observed when rice paddy is sown in Odisha in preparation for the upcoming Kharif season. Farmers begin the day by performing ritualistic adoration of Mother Earth, bullocks, other traditional farm animals, and crops to invoke the blessings of a successful harvest. Following field preparation, farmers plant paddy seeds as a prelude to the state's most significant Kharif crop. The state celebrates this tradition, Akhi Muthi Anukula (Akhi- Akshaya Tritiya; Muthi - a fistful of grain; Anukula- commencement or inauguration), with great pomp. Due to ceremonial Akhi Muthi Anukula events run by farmers' organizations and political parties, the occasion has recently gained much attention. On this day in Puri, the building of the chariots for the Ratha Yatra celebrations of the Jagannath Temple also gets underway. The celebration is connected to prosperity in the Telugu-speaking states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, where ladies buy gold and jewellery. On this day, Simhachalam Temple performs unique celebratory rites. Only on this day are the layers of sandalwood paste placed on the temple's principal god removed to reveal the statue underneath; for the remainder of the year, the deity is covered in sandalwood paste. On this day, Nijaroopa Darsanam's natural shape is displayed. Purchasing gold and silver on this day is very lucky. When you buy rice, put money in a bank account, visit well-known temples, donate food or make a special offer to the needy, or assist underprivileged children with their school tuition, these are all positive indicators for the Akshaya Tritiya.

Jain Traditions Of Akshaya Tritiya

On Akshaya Tritiya, the first Tirthankara (Rishabhanatha), who practised Jainism, was remembered for eating sugarcane juice poured into his cupped palms to finish his one-year fast. The celebration is referred to as Varshi Tapa by certain Jains. Jains distinguish themselves via fasting and ascetic austerities, especially at pilgrimage locations like Palitana (Gujarat). People who practise the yearly alternate day fasting known as varnish-tap end their austerity (Tapasya) by doing Parana on this day (drinking sugarcane juice).

Timings Of Akshaya Tritiya

According to the Hindu calendar, Akshaya Tritiya is observed on the third tithi (lunar day) of Shukla Paksha in the Vaishakha month. It occurs between April and May if we use the Gregorian calendar. The Sun and the moon are considered at their planetary best on this day. The name "Akha Teej" also applies to this day.

Rituals To Be Followed On Akshaya Tritiya

Lord Vishnu's devotion is one of the most significant ceremonies performed on this day. The Sanskrit meaning of the two phrases Akshaya Tritiya is significant to Hindus. The word "Akshaya" means "never fading," while "Tritiya" refers to the third day of the Vaishakha month's illuminated half. Today, followers rise early, bathe, and start their 24-hour fast. They make money requests to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Kuber is also prayed to for luck. Charity is encouraged and practised.

Additionally, animals like cows and goats are fed. Devotees chant mantras to Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi on this auspicious and prosperous day. Akshaya Tritiya is a day-long fasting festival. The unbroken rice is covered with turmeric and kumkum and offered to Lord Vishnu during puja by devotees. They also make bhog for gods like Lord Ganesh, Lord Vishnu, and others.

Many purchase gold, silver, real estate, and other priceless items. The day is also lucky for weddings. Worshipping Lord Kuber is considered to be lucky. This day marks the start of the harvest season's first ploughing day in Eastern India. Additionally, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped by business people before beginning a new audit book for the upcoming fiscal year. This is referred to as "halkhata." On this day, people organize marriages and lengthy trips.

On this day, new company initiatives and construction projects get underway.

On this day, barley is offered into a sacred fire, a holy bath in the Ganges is taken, and gifts and offerings are made.

It is believed that engaging in spiritual practices, meditation, and mantra chanting is crucial to ensuring future wealth.

On this day, followers of Lord Krishna embalm the statue with sandalwood paste. It is thought that by doing this, the person will undoubtedly enter heaven after death.

Significance Of Akshaya Tritiya

The observance of this holiday is related to religious and spiritual significance. On this particular day, kindness is practised, and knowledge is gathered to do the greatest good. On this day, people worship both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. To bring luck into their life, people celebrate Akshaya Tritiya. According to widespread belief, investing in gold and real estate today will bring prosperity and wealth.

Important Incidents Occurred On Akshaya Tritiya

• On this day, Ved Vyasa and Lord Ganesha began composing the Mahabharata..
• Lord Parashurama, the sixth manifestation of Lord Vishnu, was born on this day, and his birthday is commemorated.
• Goddess Annapurna was born on this day.
• On this day, Lord Krishna gave his poor companion Sudama, who had come to his aid in need, wealth, and financial gains.
• According to the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna gave the Pandavas the "Akshaya patra" on this day while in exile. He gave them a bowl that perpetually created an endless food supply, never leaving them in need.
• The Ganges River came to earth on this day from heaven.
• On this day, Kubera worshipped the goddess Lakshmi, earning him the position of the Gods' treasurer.
• This day is a holiday in the Jain religion to honour Lord Adinatha.
• The epic Mahabharata was started to be written by Lord Ganesha under the instruction of Maharshi Veda Vyasa.
• Akshaya Tritiya is considered the birthday of the Balaram avatar of Lord Vishnu, and it is celebrated as an agricultural festival..
• By worshipping Lord Shiva on a Saturday with Poosam Star paired with Akshaya Tritiya, Saneeshwara was released from his troubles. Therefore, it is lucky for those born on the Poosam Star to go to the temple on a Saturday; the Poosam Star, or the Akshaya Tritiya Day, falls in April and May.

Modern-day Significance Of Akshaya Tritiyay

For Hindus and Jains in India, it is a day of joy and merriment. People are constantly purchasing new items for their homes in markets and stores, particularly gold and silver. Purchasing gold and silver today, known for its associations with growth and fortune, means that your wealth will increase and flourish, bringing good fortune.

Since this day is believed to bring luck and success, many people strive to schedule key events in their lives, such as marriages, housewarmings, the birth of their children, the purchase of automobiles, the beginning of new jobs or initiatives, etc.

Many people launch new enterprises or open ledgers (business books) to record a year of extraordinary progress and wealth on this day.

Since Akshaya Tritiya is the day to obtain wealth, power, and success, it is considered the most auspicious time to begin or start new endeavours. Akshaya Tritiya also brings prosperity and happiness.

Astrological Significance Of Akshaya Tritiya

On Akshaya Tritiya, the moon is positioned in Taurus, while the Sun is in conjunction with Aries. This auspicious day falls on the third day of the bright half of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Vaishaka, which usually occurs in April or May. It is believed that the Sun and the Moon are at their brightest on this day. In astrology, Akshaya Tritiya is known as the "brightest day" of the year. It signifies that the Sun and the Moon are in their most esteemed positions, emitting the most light. When the Moon opposes the Sun, it reflects the Sun's light, which is why it appears to be emitting the most light. As a result of their exalted positions, the Sun and the Moon are both said to be shining the brightest from their respective signs of Aries and Taurus.

Akshaya Tritiya Dates From 2023 To 2029

2023
Saturday, 22nd of April

2024
Friday, 10th of May

2025
Wednesday, 30th of April

2026
Sunday, 19th of April

2027
Sunday, 9th of May

2028
Thursday, 27th of April

2029
Wednesday, 16th of May

Significance Of Charity On Akshaya Tritiya

The celebration of Akshaya Tritiya is regarded as one for achieving enormous fortune. This day is especially important for performing holy actions, charitable acts, donations, fasts, and holy baths. Bathing in sacred rivers like the Yamuna and the Ganga is particularly promising. Donating products used in the heat, such as clothing, water, food, etc., is also considered lucky. On this day, worshippers should offer Goddess Parvati wheat, channa, curd, milk, kheer, sugarcane, gold, clothing, a water pot, and other offerings.

Fasting Rules Of Akshaya Tritiya

Fasting and worshipping the god are both recommended during Akshaya Tritiya. This day has special significance for all the sacramental acts, both a fast and a celebration. After worshipping the deity on this day, worshippers should take an early morning bath before starting their fast. Establish an image of Lord Vishnu or an idol first, then dress it with sandalwood and a floral garland. Before you begin your prayers, present the Lord sesame seed, rice, and chana dal. Then, while praying to god, recite the Vishnu Sastranaam route. After the puja process is complete, give some prasad to the Lord and the remaining food to the family members.

On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshipped with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is customary to consume rice and moong dal khichdi on this day. Because Akshaya Tritiya is also known as Navan, giving away dishes, candies, watermelons, milk, and curd is considered lucky.

Traditional Rituals That Can Be Performed On Akshaya Tritiya

• Clean up and organize your home to start. Donate all you don't need to those who are less fortunate.
• On this day, perform pooja with your entire family. While you can make the typical prasadam for everyone, ask your children to bring some Tulsi leaves and flowers for the puja.
• Plan your weddings or house entrances for this Akshaya Tritiya 2023 to make the most of the occasion.
• Hindus and Jains might purchase precious metals like gold and silver in the form of jewelry, brand-new clothing, homes, real estate, vehicles, etc., for enduring success and wealth.
• Special cuisine is cooked to offer to the gods during Akshaya Tritiya. The Naivedyam thali, which includes rice, milk, and milk products, including kheer, ghee, curd, and sweets, must be enjoyed at least once.
• If you can, take a dip in the Holy Ganga river during the muhurat times to atone for your transgressions and to beg for pardon.

More Interesting Things About Akshaya Tritiya

Here are some fascinating facts about Akshaya Tritiya that will leave you wondering if you are still interested in learning more about this auspicious day.

• Three lunar days are regarded as lucky each year. The first one is Akshaya Tritiya, which occurs between April and May; the second is the Indian New Year, between March and April; and the third and final one is Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami, which occurs between October and November.
• Farmers celebrate Akshaya Tritiya as a day of hope and joy since it is the day they sow the seeds for the upcoming crop season, and the entire family prays together for a plentiful harvest.
• If you frequently supported philanthropic causes throughout the last year, you would be blessed on Akshay Tritiya. Being the "Brahma Muhurat," it has unique importance.
• Another intriguing aspect of this auspicious day is that it appears every year on the Hindu calendar, even though this lunar calendar occasionally has extra days and other times has days missing.
• Another intriguing aspect of this auspicious day is that it appears every year on the Hindu calendar, even though this lunar calendar occasionally has extra days and other times has days missing.
• People in Jainism break their annual fast, known as Varshitap, which they observe on alternate days, by sipping sugarcane juice on Akshaya Tritiya.