In Indian culture, certain days hold great significance and are considered highly auspicious. One such day is Akshay Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej in many regions. Akshay means that which never diminishes, and Tritiya refers to the third lunar day. This day is regarded as one of the most important and auspicious days in the Hindu and Jain calendars. It is believed that performing any sacred activity on this day yields everlasting, non-perishable benefits.

Origin & Mythological Significance

Akshay Tritiya falls on the third day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Vaishakha. There are several mythological stories associated with this day, which are widely believed to be the reasons behind its sacredness.

1. The Birth of Lord Parashurama
   One of the significant events is the birth of Lord Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Hence, this day is also celebrated as Parashurama Jayanti in many parts of India.
2. The Beginning of the Mahabharata
   It is believed that on this day, the great sage Vyasa began composing the Mahabharata, and Lord Ganesha wrote it down.
3. Draupadi’s Akshaya Patra
   During the period of exile in the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna gifted Draupadi an Akshaya Patra, a magical vessel that provided an endless supply of food. This divine gift is also associated with Akshay Tritiya.
4. The Descent of the Ganga
   In some versions of the legend, it is said that the sacred river Ganga descended from heaven to Earth on this day, bringing purity and blessings to the land.
5. The Beginning of the Treta Yuga
   This day also marks the commencement of the Treta Yuga, the second age in Hindu cosmology.

Akshay Tritiya in Jainism

In Jainism, Akshay Tritiya holds special significance as well. It is believed that on this day, Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara, broke his long fast by consuming sugarcane juice after years of asceticism. To commemorate this, Jains perform rituals of fasting, charity, and celebrate the teachings of Lord Rishabhdev.

Rituals & Religious Observances

On Akshay Tritiya, many households and temples across India perform various religious rituals. Here are some of the key practices:

1. Ganga Snan (Holy Bath)
   It is considered highly auspicious to take a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or other pilgrimage sites on this day. Bathing in the holy waters is believed to cleanse the soul and bring eternal benefits.
2. Beginning of Auspicious Activities
   Akshay Tritiya is considered an ideal time to start any new venture. People often choose this day to begin activities such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies, business launches, purchases of land, or even buying gold or silver. The belief is that any new beginning on this day is destined for success and prosperity.
3. Worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi
   Devotees worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, the deities of wealth, prosperity, and well-being. Offerings of flowers, fruits, and sacred items like Tulsi leaves and Ganga water are made during prayers and rituals.
4. Charity & Giving
   This day is particularly associated with the practice of giving. Many people perform acts of charity, such as donating food, clothes, money, and other essentials to the needy. It is believed that charity performed on Akshay Tritiya brings endless rewards.
5. Recitation of Sacred Texts
   Many families engage in reading the Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, or other sacred scriptures on this day. Reciting verses from holy texts and chanting mantras is considered auspicious.

Akshay Tritiya & Our Family

For our family, Akshay Tritiya became even more special three years ago, as on this very day, our beloved son Judhajit and beautiful Tania were married. Their union on this auspicious day truly symbolizes the eternal bond of love and happiness. Just as the significance of Akshay Tritiya is about unending prosperity, their marriage signifies an everlasting, harmonious relationship, blessed with love and joy.

We wish them a blessed married life, filled with infinite happiness, love, and mutual respect. May they lead a life full of piety, contentment, and fulfillment, growing together in every step of their journey. Their union is indeed a testament to the timeless significance of Akshay Tritiya — an embodiment of eternal love and prosperity.

Modern Practices & Commercialisation

In modern times, Akshay Tritiya has also taken on a commercial aspect, particularly in areas like:

• Gold Purchases: The day is considered extremely auspicious for buying gold and jewellery. This tradition is believed to bring lasting wealth and prosperity, and as a result, jeweler stores experience a rush of customers looking to make their purchases.
• Wedding Season: Akshay Tritiya is often seen as the beginning of the wedding season. Many people choose this day to set their wedding dates, and it is seen as an auspicious time to embark on a new chapter in life.
• Real Estate and Vehicle Purchases: Many people also opt to purchase property or vehicles on Akshay Tritiya, believing that it is a prosperous time for such investments.

Social Importance

Akshay Tritiya is not just about rituals, but also about the social messages it carries. The core teaching of this day is to engage in actions that bring long-lasting positive impact. It encourages generosity, helps build social connections, and fosters the spirit of goodwill and selflessness.

Conclusion

Akshay Tritiya is not just a day; it is a philosophy of life. The day teaches us that good deeds, when performed with sincerity, have eternal value, and it reminds us that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the potential to leave an everlasting impact.

In addition, for our family, this day will always hold a special place as it marks the beautiful union of Judhajit and Tania. Their marriage represents the essence of Akshay Tritiya itself — a bond that will remain forever strong, prosperous, and filled with love.

May your Akshay Tritiya be filled with joy, prosperity, and lasting blessings.