Akshaya Tritiya

On Saturday, the newspapers were full of ads from the jewelry stores, car dealerships, real estate brokers and stores that sell silk saris, especially designed for weddings. Tomorrow would be Akshaya Tritiya. Buy now!

Akshaya Tritiya falls on the third day (Tritiya) of the new moon of Vaishakh month. This day is considered one the four most auspicious days, according to the Hindu calendar. According to the Puranas, this day marks the beginning of the Treta Yug. The birthday of Parashurma (left), the sixth incarnation of Vishnu, falls on this day. It is believed that by doing a good deed on Akshaya Tritiya one can earn Punya (merit) for life. In northern India the holiday is known as Akha Teej.

The word Akshaya means “that which never diminishes.” This day is believed to be so pure and auspicious that starting new ventures and making new purchases like, gold, silver, property and vehicles are considered to bring success and prosperity. In India, gold is regarded as the ultimate symbol of prosperity, and jewelry shops are open into the wee hours on auspicious days. In spite of modern technology and changing lifestyles, this dedication to an auspicious time is a prominent feature of Indian life.

It is the best day for new investments. Thousands of marriages are performed on this day. It is also considered auspicious to seek the blessing of your elders. Most Hindus begin the day by visiting temples of the Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.

Akshaya Tritiya was once considered auspicious for giving charity to those in dire need. Vedic pandits used to be given a package consisting of a pair of footwear, an umbrella, a hand fan and curd rice in a mud pot. All these things were given to apparently alleviate the harshness of the heat during this season.

So Akshaya Tritiya came and went with the requisite number of purchases and weddings. May you feel blessed on this auspicious day!