The significance of shubh muhurats is acutely felt any time you want to start a new venture. By that standard, Akshay Tritiya is a very important day, as every single moment in this day is considered auspicious by Hindus.

One of the four most auspicious days in the Vedic calendar, Akshay Tritiya is celebrated on the third day of the bright fortnight of Baisakh (April-May). The word Akshay, in Sanskrit, means imperishable or eternal or something that can never diminish. Valuables are bought in plenty on this day, and new initiations are carried out, as this is believed to guarantee lasting success and prosperity.

Astrologically speaking, this is the only time in the year that the sun and moon are simultaneously at their brightest. The heavenly bodies are probably trying to match the auspiciousness of the day with their glow. The importance of the day appreciates when it falls on a Monday, or is in conjunction with the Rohini nakshatra.

Myths & Legends

Akshay Tritiya has many associations in the Hindu mythologies. Primarily, this day is believed to mark the beginning of the Satya Yug, the first of the four Yugas.

The Puranas tell the story of Ved Vyas beginning to compose the epic Mahabharat, with Lord Ganesh writing it down, on Akshay Tritiya. Besides, the birthday of Parshuram, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is observed on this day. Goddess Ganga is also believed to have descended to earth on this day.

For the Jains, this day has special significance. The first Tirthankar, Bhagwan Rishabdev, broke his fasting spell of one year by taking sugarcane juice on this day. Following his example, people who observe the austerity of Varsi tap-the custom of alternative day fasting for a year-end their penance on the same day.

Customs & Practices

Many people observe fasts, conduct special Pujas of Lord Vishnu, bathe in the Ganga, and make charities to ensure lasting prosperity. For the Jat farming community, this day is known as Akha Teej. The usual practice is that a male member of the family leaves for the fields with a shovel in hand in the early hours of the morning. All the animals and birds he comes across, en route, serve as omens to help predict the upcoming rains and crops.

All over Bengal, new audit books are brought out on Akshay Tritiya after worshiping Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi. This ceremony is called the Hal Khata. Businessmen pray that their business luck thrives with the issue of these new audit books.

Trends

Given its auspicious status-anything established or begun on this day is imperishable-Akshay Tritiya is a tailor-made occasion for weddings. Another popular activity this day is purchasing of gold and jewellery, since the yellow metal is considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and prosperity. Women and girls trying out ornaments in crowded jewellery stores on this day is a common sight.

This is the day people wait to begin or plan new businesses, ventures…long journeys even. Many people are known to hold off sealing property deals until Akshay Tritiya; others have their grih shanti or shatapana pujas specifically performed on this day.

People believe anything that is launched on this day will flourish. Do you feel the same? What customs and practices do you follow? Does your family have any unique way to celebrate this holy day? Use our feedback form below to share your experiences and tips with us.

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