Akshaya Tritiya is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. The term “Akshaya” means “never diminishing”—signifying eternal prosperity and success. Unlike other occasions where specific muhurthas (auspicious timings) are required, Akshaya Tritiya itself is considered inherently auspicious for all endeavors. Any charitable act, service to the Lord, or spiritual practice performed on this day is believed to yield eternal and multiplied benefits, never lost with time.
Significance of Akshaya Tritiya
1. Yudhisthira Maharaj and the Akshaya Patra
Yudhisthira Maharaj, after severe austerities, was blessed by the Sun God with the divine Akshaya Patra, a mystical vessel that provided unlimited food, ensuring sustenance for the Pandavas during their exile.
2. Krishna’s Divine Mercy on Draupadi
When Durvasa Muni and his disciples arrived, Draupadi had no food to offer. Lord Krishna took a single grain from her vessel, miraculously satisfying the hunger of all the sages. The sacred Akshaya Patra is currently in Udupi, under the custody of Pejawar Matha.
3. Multiplication of Charity and Service
Any service, charity, or spiritual act done on this day is believed to bring immense and eternal rewards. Chanting the holy names and engaging in devotional activities carry multiplied benefits.
4. The Descent of River Ganges
Mother Ganga, the holiest river in Hindu tradition, is said to have descended to Earth on Akshaya Tritiya, sanctifying the planet with her divine presence.
5. The Appearance of Lord Parashurama
One of Lord Vishnu’s ten avatars, Lord Parashurama, appeared on this sacred day. Known for his unwavering commitment to dharma, he is revered as the warrior-sage.
6. Sri Vijayadwaja Tirthara’s Legacy
Sri Vijayadwaja Tirthara, a renowned spiritual scholar, attained samadhi on this day. He authored Bhakti-Ratnavali, a commentary on the Srimad Bhagavatam. A special festival is held at Sri Pejawar Matha, where the Akshaya Patra given by Sri Madhva is honored with puja.
7. Vyasadeva Begins Composing the Mahabharata
The great sage Vyasadeva started composing the Mahabharata, one of the most profound epics in human history, on this very day.
8. Sudama’s Visit to Krishna in Dwaraka
Sudama, a dear childhood friend of Krishna, visited Dwaraka and was blessed with great prosperity. His story symbolizes devotion, humility, and Krishna’s boundless mercy.
9. Kubera Attains Wealth and Status
On this day, Kubera, the treasurer of the gods, was granted his wealth and celestial position, signifying abundance and prosperity.
10. Lord Rishabhadeva’s Breaking of the One-Year Fast
Lord Rishabhadeva (in Jain tradition) completed one year of fasting and broke it by drinking sugarcane juice, marking this day as highly sacred in Jainism.
11. The Beginning of Ratha Yatra Preparations
The grand chariot construction for Lord Jagannath’s Ratha Yatra begins on Akshaya Tritiya, kicking off preparations for one of India’s most revered festivals.
12. Creation of Barley – The Sacred Grain
Barley, considered an important ingredient in Vedic rituals and offerings, is believed to have first manifested on this auspicious day.
13. The Start of Chandana Yatra
The Chandana Yatra, where the deity of the Lord is anointed with sandalwood paste to provide relief from the scorching summer heat, begins today—a tradition observed in many temples.
Conclusion
Akshaya Tritiya is more than just a day of prosperity—it is an opportunity for spiritual advancement, selfless service, and devotional remembrance of divine pastimes. Acts of charity, chanting, and service performed on this day are said to yield eternal benefits, bringing divine blessings and everlasting fortune.
Whether one seeks spiritual elevation, prosperity, or fulfillment, Akshaya Tritiya stands as an eternal gateway to divine grace.