Day to multiply prosperity SOUL JOURNEY

AKSHAYA Tritiya is the day that multiplies prosperity and, this year, it will be celebrated on May 10.

Also known as Akha Teej, it is one of the most auspicious days for those who follow Hinduism.

Usually, the day is celebrated with much vigour and reverence.

The special occasion occurs once every year when the Sun and the Moon are in exalted positions, at the peak of their astrological power, usually from late April to 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, and every moment is auspicious.

It is believed that sacred deeds (Punya Karya) performed on the day never go unnoticed, and that starting a new venture or investing in valuables end with fruitful rewards.

Hence, the benefits of doing Jaap (chanting) and charity on the day never diminish. They remain with the person forever.

Legends attached to the day.

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

2. According to the Puranas, Satyuga and Tretayuga started on this day.

3. The sacred river Ganges descended from heaven to Earth on this day.

4. The most popular story regarding the celebration of Akshaya Tritiya is that Lord Krishna and Sudama were friends during their childhood. Sudama, being poor, went to Krishna to ask him for financial help. Sudama did not have anything to give Krishna except for a pouch of poha (rice) on greeting him. He felt ashamed to be giving only a handful of rice to Lord Krishna, the source of all. Sudama was so overwhelmed by the hospitality Lord Krishna showed him that he could not ask his friend for financial support. He went home empty-handed. When he arrived home, he saw that his hut had been converted into a palace and his family were wearing royal attire. Sudama knew that the immense wealth was the blessing of his friend, Krishna. This is why Akshaya Tritiya is associated with material gains.

5. According to another legend, during the time of the Mahabharat, when the Pandavas were in exile, Lord Krishna presented them with an “Akshaya Patra”, a divine bowl that would never be empty; it would produce an unlimited supply of food on demand. Worshipping Lord Krishna with true love and devotion will always keep you favoured by prosperity.

6. Ved-vyas, the great sage, along with Lord Ganesha, started writing the great epic Mahabharat on this day.

7. Every year, the gates of the Badrinath temple (a major part of the Char Dham pilgrimage) open on this day for six months. Of all pilgrimages, a visit to Badrinath is one every human should do. Lord Vishnu resides here. One who visits this temple is relieved of their numerous sins, worries, greed and grief. Prayers done here lead one to heaven.

Things to do on the day:

1. According to astrology, it is important for a family to eat a vegetarian meal together. It will strengthen the family bond and keep the family united. Be vegetarian. It is considered good to eat “khichdi” with ghee to increase prosperity.

2. The benefits of taking a bath in the Ganga river, doing Vishnu pooja or any prayers, and giving to charity is that the good deeds never diminish and will always prove fruitful.

3. If the Lakshmi prayer is done, brings prosperity.

4. Feeding the poor is considered auspicious.

5. The day is considered auspicious for starting new ventures. It is said that any venture initiated on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya will continue to grow and bring prosperity.

This applies to starting a spiritual sadhana, setting up a new business, starting a construction project, buying property, gold or any jewellery, celebrating a wedding or beginning resolutions.

Facts:

1. In India, the highest sale of gold of the year takes place on this day.

2. The largest number of weddings occur on Akha Teej in India as it is believed that the marriage will be eternal.

3. It is also believed that people born during this time shine bright in their life.