Akshaya Tritiya - 5 traditional rituals performed on this auspicious day

Lord Sri Krishna said, “Oh Yudhistra, the offerings made and the oblations offered in the sacrificial fire (havan) on this day never go in vain.”

Since eons it is believed that deeds and rituals performed on Akshaya Tritiya, have a permanent impact on our lives.  Thus, the day is considered auspicious to start new ventures, business, purchases, investments and so on. 

Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej –falls on third Thithi (Tritiya) of the Shukla Paksh of the Vaisakha (lunar month).  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. Astrologically, it is believed that the Sun and the Moon are most radiant and best placed on the Askhaya Tritiya day. The importance of this day lies in the fact that no special muhurata is needed or auspicious time is needed to perform any auspicious work. 

If you don't know much about the traditional rituals that are performed on this blessed day, here's some trivia...

1. Buying Gold 

Buying gold is a popular activity of Akshaya Tritiya, as it is the ultimate symbol of wealth and prosperity. As we already know that purchasing gold adds to the wealth and assets of an individual,  hence, it is believed that buying gold on this specific day ensures eternal fortune. This is because the very term Akshaya means ‘never diminishing’.

2. Making Donations 

It is believed that making offerings on Akshay Tritiya never goes in vain. In fact, one drives more benefit out of it. The donations are believed to help in reducing sins of previous births and increase in virtue. Therefore individuals should offer Satpaatre Daan, that is to make an offering in such activities that not only enhance spiritual progress  but also aims at protection of the Nation and 'Dharma'. 

3. Worshipping Mother Earth 

On this day people worship Mother Earth in order to attain her everlasting blessings. It is believed that Mother Earth blesses the devotees with food grains (Dhaanyalakshmi), wealth (Dhanalakshmi) and Prosperity (Vaibhavlakshmi). 

4. The planting of trees 

It is believed that trees planted on this auspicious day, blossom with abundant fruits, which is also the sign of prosperity. 

5. Prayers (Puja's)

The ancient seers reveal that prayers on this day will pave a road for riches, both materially and spiritually. The ruler of this day is Lord Vishnu. It is believed that on this very day, Deity Hayagriv, Deity Narayan as well as Deity Parshuram descended on Earth. To mark the occasion, puja’s and offerings to Goddess Vaibhav Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna are performed. Deeds such as recitations (Japa), penance (Tapa), donations (Dana) ritual bathing (Snaana), sacrifices (Havan), burnt oblations to fire (Hooma) are performed. Rice, salt, ghee, sugar, vegetables, tamarind, fruit, and clothes are donated to charity on this day.