Out of the four most auspicious days of traditional Hindu calendar, Akshaya Tritiya is the one celebrated widely. In Sanskrit the word “Akshaya” means the one that never ends or which lasts forever. Hence, Akshaya Thiritiya is believed to bring never ending success and good luck. Every year, Akshaya Trutheeya is celebrated on the 3rd day of bright half of lunar month of Vaisakha month of Hindu calendar. In 2009, Akshaya Tritiya falls on 27th April, Monday.

Why Akshaya Tritiya is considered Auspicious?
The exalted positions of Sun and Moon in Aries and Taurus respectively makes this day so auspicious that there is no need to look for subah muhurats. As per the Hindu mythology, Treta Yuga began on this day and the holy Ganges River descended from heaven on earth. As per the Vedas, Lord Ganesha along with the sage Veda Vyasa initiated writing Mahabharata on this day.

Customs and Rituals of Akshaya Tritiya:
Akshaya Tritiya festival is devoted to Lord Vishnu as it is observed as the birthday of 6th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Parashurama. According to description in Puranas, performing Shri Maha Vishnu Pooja on Akshaya Tritiya eradicates sin and helps in attaining salvation. The Shri Maha Vishnu Puja can be simply performed with Tulsi leaves, flowers and rice grains.

Some people also perform Goddess Lakshmi pooja, whereas others perform Lakshmi Kubera Homa. Offering food (annadhanam) and clothes to the poor is one of important rituals performed on Akshaya Tritiya. People give alms and make donations on this auspicious day. In some regions of India, sandals, umbrellas, etc. are also donated.

The day is also marked by investing in long term assets like gold, silver, diamonds, real estate, etc. Most people start their new business, construction ventures or shops on this day. Even marriages are held on this day.

So wishing you all Happy and Prosperous Akshaya Tritiya 2009. And hope that 2009 Akshaya Tritiya brings never ending prosperity and happiness in your lives.