For the Hindu and Jain faiths, Akshaya Tritiya, also called Akha Teej, represents a holy and precious day. As it’s regarded as the lucky day, any endeavours (financial or spiritual) made on this day are successful. It offers a wonderful time for individuals involved in spiritual pursuits, including meditation, yoga, japa, scripture reading, and similar things. On the third lunar day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishakha, Akshay Tritiya occurs (April-May). In Sanskrit, “vaishakha” also refers to a churning stick. That’s the month to generate the essence, the substance, and the best or pure things. The theme of every celebration taking place during Vaishakh Month is purification by way of blessings. Since Lord Vishnu took the form of Parashurama the Warrior to purge this mother earth of the rebellious rulers who had afflicted her with their misdeeds, Parashurama Jayanti is commemorated during this month.
Given that it is a day of numerous benefits, Akshaya Tritiya is regarded as being among the most auspicious festivals. The other three Yugas indicate the beginning of the Treta Yuga (Satya, Dwarpa and Kali). Any good deed on this day would undoubtedly result in several Divine blessings. On Akshaya Tritiya, purchasing gold is thought to bring unending prosperity into one’s life. “Endless fortune” refers to Lakshmi’s lucky presence.
History
Akshaya Tritiya is among the holiest and lucky days Hindus observe. This day represents luck, success, and an increase in fortune. This day commemorates numerous significant events in mythology and ancient history.
- On this day, Ved Vyasa, as well as Lord Ganesha, began composing the Mahabharata.
- On this day, Lord Parashurama, Lord Vishnu’s sixth avatar, was born. Therefore, his birthday is also commemorated.
- On this day, the goddess Annapurna was born.
- On this day, Lord Krishna gave his poor companion Sudama, who had come to his support in need, wealth with financial gains.
- According to the Mahabharata, on this day, the Pandavas had been in exile as Lord Krishna gave them the “akshaya patra.”He bestowed upon them a bowl which would constantly create an endless supply of food, never leaving them in need.
- The Ganges River came to earth on this day from heaven.
- On this day, Kubera worshipped the goddess Lakshmi, gaining him the position of God’s treasurer.
- This day is a holiday in the Jain religion to honour Lord Adinatha, the religion’s founder.
Why is Akshay Tritiya Important For Hindus and Jain?
There is a belief that whatever started on this day is indestructible and will eventually grow. Thus, our predecessors urged us to start a new business or buy anything significant on this day. Making fresh investments for a company’s growth and development is another prevalent strategy.
Akshaya Tritiya is regarded by Hindus as a very auspicious day for beginning future endeavours, purchasing gold and other valuables, and engaging in religious rites. Each new initiative launched today is meant to bring luck and prosperity. On this day, many individuals also pray and give to charity. The Tithi Parva, or anniversary, of the Tirthankara Rishabhadeva breaking his year-long fast by consuming sugarcane juice provided by a farmer, is observed on Akshaya Tritiya, also known as the Jain New Year. This day is essential to Jains since it stands for the value of austerity, restraint, and separation of material things. Akshaya Tritiya is also observed as Lord Parashurama’s birthday by some Hindus who consider him an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who was born on this day.
In general, Akshaya Tritiya is an important day for Hindus and Jains since it brings luck, success, or prosperity across all areas of life.
Where to Travel in Akshay Tritiya Festival?
Major Akha Teej celebrations occur in Odisha, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. Even so, the event is observed differently in these areas, with unique rituals and traditions. Speaking of how to celebrate Akshaya Tritiya, there are a lot of ceremonies and rituals that devotees perform on this important day.
1. Uttar Pradesh
Akshaya Tritiya is one of the most significant celebrations in Uttar Pradesh, a state in northern India. On this year’s day, the presiding deity’s feet were displayed in the Banke Bihari Temple at Vrindavan. Akha Teej is considered the first day of creation, which is why it has such a high religious value. Sandalwood paste is used to embellish the idols of Lord Krishna. In addition, religious presents, including cucumbers, aamras, juice, and even laddus prepared of sattu, were offered to the goddess.
2. West Bengal
The Akshaya Tritiya celebration is zealously and devotedly observed in West Bengal. On this day, people buy long-term investments like gold and silver. Business people participate in religious ceremonies and pujas to worship Goddess Lakshmi to bring success and prosperity to their companies.
3. Odisha
The celebration signifies the beginning of the building of the chariots for the major Rath Yatra parade within the state of Odisha. The renowned Chandan Yatra starts on Akshaya Tritiya. This important day is also called “Muthi Chhuan” across western Odisha. The intake of green leaves is restricted on this day. On this day, farmers also plant seeds.
4. Maharashtra
Women commemorate this religious occasion with great enthusiasm throughout the state of Maharashtra. Ladies offer prayers for their spouses’ health and longevity. They sell Kumkum and Haldi (turmeric) as part of a ritual (vermilion). Haldi, as well as kumkum, are both symbolic of a happy marriage. Not only that, but they also assemble to worship Goddess Gauri and give her fruits and sweets.
On this day, purchasing gold and silver is seen as extremely fortunate. These metals represent the goddess Lakshmi. It is claimed that the goddess will bestow wealth and success upon you in profusion if you invest in gold or silver during this festival. You must understand the significance of this for Akshaya Tritiya. On this day, followers of Lord Krishna embalm the statue with sandalwood paste. It is considered that by doing this, the person will definitely enter heaven after death.
