Spread the word about an auspicious day for prosperity

AKSHAYA Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, on April 28, is a day that is known to multiply your prosperity.

It is one of the most holy days for Hindus. On this day every year, the sun and moon are in exalted positions and at the peak of their astrological power – it usually happens in late April or early May.

It falls during Shukla Paksha Tritiya in the month of Vaishakha, according to the traditional Hindu calendar.

Derived from the Sanskrit word Akshaya, which means never diminishing, imperishable, and eternal, the day is believed to bring good luck and success.

It is believed that sacred deeds (punya karya) performed on this day never go unnoticed and embarking on new ventures or making investments would be lucrative.

So the benefits of jaap (chanting) and doing charitable deeds on this day are lasting. Legends

• One legend has it that on this day Lord Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born.

• According to the Puranas (sacred writings), Satyuga and Tretayuga were started on this day.

• The sacred River Ganges descended from Heaven to Earth on this day.

• The most popular story about the celebration of Akshaya

MAHESH BANG

Tritiya is that Lord Krishna and Sudama were friends during their childhood. Sudama was poor and he went to Krishna to ask for financial assistance.

Sudama did not have anything except a pouch of poha (rice) when they met. He felt ashamed to only give rice to Lord Krishna, who is the source of all.

Sudama was overwhelmed by Lord Krishna’s hospitality that he could not ask his friend for financial help, which led him to go home empty-handed.

When he returned home, he noticed that his hut had been transformed into a palace and his family was clothed in royal attire.

Sudama knew the immense blessing was from his friend Lord Krishna.this is why Akshaya Tritiya (the golden day) is associated with material gain.

• It is believed that, during the time of the Mahabharat (one of the two most important ancient epics stories of India), when the Pandavas were in exile, Lord Krishna, on this day, presented them with an akshaya patra,a divine bowl of and unending supply of food.

Thus, worshipping Lord Krishna with love and devotion will keep you prosperous.

• Ved-vyas, the great sage, and Lord Ganesha started writing the Mahabharat on this day.

• Each year, the gates of Badrinath temple (a major aspect of the Char Dham pilgrimage) open on this day for six months. Of all pilgrimages, a visit to Badrinath is exceptional because Lord Vishnu resides here.

Those who visit the temple find relief from sin, worry, greed and grief. Prayers at the temple put one on the path to Heaven.

Things to do on this day

• According to astrology, it is important for a family to have a vegetarian meal together, to strengthen their bonds and maintain unity. Be vegetarian on this day.

It is considered good to eat khichdi ( rice and lentils) with ghee at this time. It increases prosperity.

• Bathing in the River Ganges, performing Vishnu pooja (prayer rituals) or any other prayer and charitable work will reap benefits.

• Lakshmi pooja on this day brings prosperity.

• It is a good time to start new ventures, to ensure they prosper. One can start a spiritual sadhana, set up a new business, start building, buy property, gold or any jewellery, schedule weddings or make resolutions. Facts • More gold is sold in India on this day than on any other.

• Many take the opportunity to marry in the belief their marriages will be eternal.

• People born at this time are believed to do well.

Not many people know about the significance of this day, so I encourage readers to share this knowledge.

Readers can send their name and surname, religion, date, place and time of birth and the advice they require to: Mahesh Bang, Tribune Herald, PO Box 47549, Greyville, 4023, or e-mail tribuneherald@inl.co.za or call him at: 083 659 2277 or 031 500 6525