Akshaya Tritiya is one of the most special and auspicious Hindu festivals. If celebrated in the right manner, it is believed to bring unending prosperity. It is considered to be the day of new beginnings. Buying gold, property, or starting new ventures on this day is believed to bring lasting success. The day involves prayers, charity, and honouring deities like Lord Vishnu and Maa Lakshmi, signifying a time for material gain and spiritual merit.
Akshaya Tritiya 2025: History and significance
The Sanskrit meaning of Akshaya Tritiya, the two words, holds a lot of importance. “Akshaya” means “eternal”, and the term “Tritiya” signifies the third day of the illuminated half of Vaishakha month.
As per one legend, on Akshaya Tritiya, Treta Yuga, the second of the four yugas, started, and the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Parshuram, was born. Another legend suggests that Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata, started narrating the epic to Lord Ganesh on this day.
It was also on this occasion that Lord Krishna met his childhood friend Sudama. As per another notion, the river Ganga descended on Earth from heaven on Akshaya Tritiya.
Akshaya Tritiya 2025: Rituals and celebrations
On Akshaya Tritiya, people observe a day-long fast. Devotees perform puja and prepare “Akshate” (unbroken rice coated with turmeric and kumkum) to offer to Lord Vishnu. They also prepare bhog for Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesh and other deities. Worshipping Lord Kuber is also seen as an auspicious practice.
Since Akshaya Tritiya is an auspicious day, many people like to buy gold or silver items as it is believed that buying precious metals brings prosperity and good luck to the family. This day is also auspicious for marriages.
Moreover, charitable works are an important part of the day. Devotees distribute grains, clothes, and other items among the poor to receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
