Akshaya Tritiya: ushering in prosperity

Akshaya Tritiya, an auspicious day for new beginnings, is here. The festival is celebrated on the third day of 'Shukla Paksha' of the Vaisakha month by Hindus and Jains, and it is believed that the planetary combination on Akshaya Tritiya will usher in good fortune.

According to a story from the 'Puranas', it was on this day that Veda Vyasa along with Ganesha started writing the epic 'Mahabaratha'.

Akshaya Tritiya is also considered to be the birthday of Lord Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Another belief is that Lord Krishna gave the 'Akshaya Patra' (magical vessel) to Draupadi on this day to take care of their food during their 'vanavas' (forest life).

People buy gold on this day as it is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. They also begin new business ventures, get married and plan long journeys.

'Lakshmi Puja' on Akshaya Tritiya holds a great significance for those who wish to have material benefits and abundance of wealth. Along with 'Lakshmi Puja', Lord Kubera (God of wealth) is also worshipped.

On this day, married woman are invited home and given betel leaf, turmeric, and kumkum. Apart from that, 'kosambari' (a salad made from pulses and garnished with mustard seeds) and 'paanka' (lemonade) are also given. It acts a cooler.

Donation is an important aspect of the festival. Buttermilk, sandalwood, betel leaves and nuts, coconut, bronze or silver vessels and clothes are some of the items that are usually donated on this auspicious day.