Akshaya Tritiya holds special significance in Odisha, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik extending warm greetings for the occasion.
The resonance of Akshaya Tritiya reverberates across the land of Odisha as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik extend heartfelt greetings on this auspicious occasion. Celebrated on the tritiya tithi of the Baisakh month second fortnight, this festival holds deep significance as a tribute to Goddess Lakshmi, the epitome of wealth and prosperity in Hindu mythology.
Derived from the Sanskrit words “Akshaya” meaning eternal or never-ending, and “Tritiya” signifying the third day of the month of Vaisakha, Akshaya Tritiya embodies the promise of infinite blessings and prosperity. In Hindu tradition, purchases made on this day are believed to yield endless wealth, prompting many to invest in gold as a symbol of affluence and auspiciousness.
The legends associated with Akshaya Tritiya enrich its cultural tapestry, offering narratives of compassion, generosity, and divine blessings. One such tale recounts the encounter between Lord Krishna and his dear friend Sudama, wherein Sudama’s humble offering of a bag of rice transformed into boundless wealth and prosperity, symbolizing the benevolence of divine grace.
Additionally, the lore of the Pandavas receiving the divine Akshaya Patra from Lord Krishna underscores the festival’s association with abundance and sustenance. The Akshaya Patra, a vessel of inexhaustible food, ensured that the Pandavas never faced scarcity during their exile, epitomizing the divine provision of sustenance and security.
In the agrarian heartland of Odisha, Akshaya Tritiya assumes a distinctive fervor as farmers embark on the ceremonial act of sowing seeds, known as “Akhi Muthi Anukula.” Adorned in new attire, farmers carry decorated baskets of seeds to their fields, invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for a bountiful harvest season. This ritual marks the commencement of agricultural activities and symbolizes the cyclical rhythm of nature’s abundance.
Moreover, Akshaya Tritiya heralds the onset of the revered “Chandan Jatra” at shrines across Odisha, a 21-day celebration culminating on the auspicious day of Baishakha Purnima. The festival also ignites the commencement of the grand Ratha Yatra preparations for Lord Jagannath and his divine siblings in Puri, marking a time of spiritual fervor and cultural exuberance.
Gold, revered as a symbol of prosperity and auspiciousness, holds a special place in Akshaya Tritiya celebrations. The tradition of purchasing gold on this day stems from ancient beliefs in its ability to invite wealth and ensure a continuous flow of prosperity into one’s life. Across Odisha and beyond, individuals invest in gold jewelry, coins, or bullion as a tangible expression of their aspirations for enduring affluence and abundance.
In addition to its religious significance, Akshaya Tritiya serves as a time for communal celebrations and cultural festivities in Odisha. Communities come together to partake in rituals, prayers, and offerings, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie. Vibrant processions, folk performances, and traditional music and dance add to the festive ambiance, infusing the atmosphere with joy and reverence.
As Akshaya Tritiya unfolds its sacred aura, Odisha resonates with the harmonious blend of tradition, spirituality, and cultural richness. Through rituals steeped in reverence and legends brimming with divine grace, the festival encapsulates the timeless pursuit of prosperity and the eternal blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. As devotees and celebrants embrace the spirit of abundance, Akshaya Tritiya stands as a testament to the enduring values of faith, generosity, and prosperity that unite communities and illuminate the path ahead. In the tapestry of Odisha’s cultural heritage, Akshaya Tritiya shines as a beacon of hope and abundance, inspiring generations to uphold the timeless traditions and values that enrich the fabric of society.
(With inputs from agencies)
