Hindus believe in the theory of "mahurats" or auspicious timings in
every step in life - be it to begin a new venture or making an
important purchase. Akshaya Tritiya is one such momentous occasion,
which is considered one of the most auspicious days of
the Hindu Calendar. It is believed, any meaningful activity
started on this day would be fruitful.
Once a Year
Akshaya Tritiya falls on the third day of the bright half of
Vaishakh month (April-May), when the Sun and Moon are in
exaltation; they are simultaneously at their peak of brightness,
which happens only once every year.
Holy Day
Akshaya Tritiya, also known as "Akha Teej", is traditionally the
birthday of Lord Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord
Vishnu. People conduct special Pujas on this day, bathe in holy
rivers, make a charity, offer barley in a sacred fire, and
worship Lord Ganesha & Devi Lakshmi on this
day.
The Golden Link
The word "Akshaya" means imperishable or eternal - that which never
diminishes. Initiations made or valuables bought on this day are
considered to bring success or good fortune. Buying gold is a
popular activity on Akshaya Tritiya, as it is the ultimate symbol
of wealth and prosperity. Gold and gold jewelry bought and worn on
this day signify never diminishing good fortune. Indians celebrate
weddings, begin new business ventures, and even plan long journeys
on this day.
Myths &
Legends
The day also marks the beginning of the "SatyaYug" or
the Golden Age - the first of the four Yugas. In the
"Puranas", the holy Hindu scriptures, there is a story that says
that on this day of Akshay Tritiya Vedavyas along with Ganesha
started writing the great epic Mahabharata. Ganga Devi or
Mother Ganges also descended to earth on this day.
Bright Births
It is also believed that people born during this time shine bright
in life. Many luminaries were born during this period: Basaveshwara
born on May 4, Ramanujacharya and Adi Shankaracharya on
May 6, Swami Chinmayananda on May 8 and Lord Buddha on
May 16.