Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu and Jain calendars. Celebrated on the third lunar day (Tritiya) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Vaishakha, it typically falls in April or May. The term “Akshaya” means eternal, imperishable, or that which never diminishes, making this day especially significant for new beginnings, investments, and acts of charity.

Why is Akshaya Tritiya Celebrated?

The day is deeply rooted in mythology and spiritual traditions. Here are some of the most well-known reasons why Akshaya Tritiya is revered:

1. The Birth of the Treta Yuga

Akshaya Tritiya is believed to mark the beginning of the Treta Yuga, the second of the four yugas (epochs) in Hindu cosmology. This epoch saw the birth of great figures like Lord Rama, Lord Parashurama, and many pivotal events in Indian epics.

2. Lord Parashurama’s Birth

The day is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Known as the warrior sage, Parashurama was born to eradicate evil and restore dharma. His birth symbolizes strength, righteousness, and divine intervention in times of moral decline.

3. Draupadi’s Akshaya Patra in the Mahabharata

One of the most iconic stories associated with Akshaya Tritiya comes from the Mahabharata. During their exile, the Pandavas faced challenges in feeding guests who visited their forest home. To help, Lord Krishna gifted Draupadi an “Akshaya Patra”, a divine vessel that provided an endless supply of food. This ensured that no guest went hungry and reinforced the idea of never-ending abundance and divine grace.

4. Sudama’s Visit to Krishna

Another beloved legend is the tale of Sudama, a poor Brahmin who visited his childhood friend Lord Krishna on Akshaya Tritiya. Though Sudama brought only humble offerings of beaten rice (poha), Krishna received him with great love. Without asking, Krishna blessed Sudama with immense wealth and prosperity. This story symbolizes the power of humility, friendship, and divine generosity.

5. Ganga’s Descent to Earth

Some traditions also associate Akshaya Tritiya with the descent of the holy river Ganga from the heavens to Earth. Bathing in sacred rivers and performing spiritual acts like puja, charity, and japa (chanting) on this day is believed to bring unending merit and blessings.

Modern-Day Observances

Today, Akshaya Tritiya is celebrated across India with various customs:

Buying gold: Many people buy gold or silver on this day, believing it will multiply and bring lasting prosperity.

Weddings and new ventures: It is considered one of the few Sade Teen Muhurat (most auspicious moments), ideal for marriages, housewarmings, or launching new businesses.

Charity and Annadanam: Acts of donation, especially of food, water, clothes, and money, are believed to yield endless karmic rewards.

Religious observance: Devotees perform pujas, offer tulsi and flowers to Vishnu and Lakshmi, and recite scriptures like the Vishnu Sahasranama.

Akshaya Tritiya is more than just a day of buying gold—it is a reminder of the eternal rewards of good deeds, devotion, and humility. Whether through acts of kindness, prayer, or new beginnings, this sacred day invites us to cultivate abundance that never fades—both materially and spiritually.