Akshaya Tritiya, the golden day to buy gold

Akshaya Tritiya, the golden day to buy gold

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, May 6: Akshaya Trithiya, or Akha Teej, is a highly auspicious day which falls on the third day after Amavasi (no moon) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha. In 2011, the date of Akshaya Trithiya is May 6. As per Hindu astrology and almanac, each second on the Akshaya Trithiya day is auspicious.

It is said that there is no need to look for a ‘muhurat’ on the day. The word Akshaya means ‘that which never diminishes’ and the day is ideal for beginning new ventures as it is believed that all investments on this day appreciates.

In a traditional Hindu lunar calendar, Akshay Tritiya is observed on the third day of Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Vaishakh Month.

It is believed that the sun and the moon are most radiant and best placed on the day. Therefore it is one of the most popular dates in Hindu calendar for marriages, for beginning new ventures, for investing and for purchasing valuables like gold and diamond.

There are numerous legends associated with Akshaya Tritiya; most popular is that of Sudama or Kuchela visiting Lord Krishna in Dwarka with a handful of beaten rice (poha or aval). Akshaya Tritiya, also known as "Akha Teej", is traditionally the birthday of Lord Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. People conduct special Pujas on this day, bathe in holy rivers, make a charity, offer barley in a sacred fire, and worship Lord Ganesha & Devi Lakshmi on this day.

 

The word "Akshaya" means imperishable or eternal - that which never diminishes. Initiations made or valuables bought on this day are considered to bring success or good fortune. Buying gold is a popular activity on Akshaya Tritiya, as it is the ultimate symbol of wealth and prosperity. Gold and gold jewelry bought and worn on this day signify never diminishing good fortune. Indians celebrate weddings, begin new business ventures, and even plan long journeys on this day.

Another legend suggests that the Pandavas received the Akshaya Pathram (bowl) from Lord Krishna (in the Mahabharata) on this day. It is also believed that Sage Vyasa began the composition of Mahabharata on the day. Lord Vishnu and his incarnations are worshipped on the day. People also conduct Lakshmi puja on Akshaya Tritiya.

But nowadays, Akshaya Trithiya is associated with gold purchase and many people wait for the day to make investments in gold.

Celebration in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi District

Despite the high cost of the yellow metal and the slowdown, people  of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts bought gold jewellery in large numbers.

People thronged jeweler showrooms since early morning to purchase gold and diamond ornaments. All the jewelers were buzzing with activity and packed with people. Many shops opened at around 8.00 AM to cater to the rush.

Various gold ornaments like necklace, ear-ring, and nose ring were among those favourites buy, salesman of a Jewellery shop. Jewelers in the city had introduced many gift voucher schemes to attract the customers.

"Sales are very good even this year. This is more than we expected," said Jewellery owner in Mangalore.

And while jewellers have put on offer various options like jewellery, bars, medallions and coins, customers are opting for jewellery.

"Even with lots of options available, people are mostly buying gold jewellery. We are expecting more volumes by late evening," they said.