Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 17: Akshaya Tritiya is believed to be one of the most important `Tithi’ of the Hindu astrology. It is said that the sun and the moon become equally bright on this auspicious day.
There are many stories related to this day. One of the legends included that on this day, as per Shiva Purana, on Akshaya Tritiya, Kuber was made the lord of riches and banker of Heaven by Lord Shiva.
Akshaya Tritiya, also known as `Akha Teej’, and is celebrated on the third lunar day of the bright fortnight. It is believed that this day brings good fortune and luck in ones life. On this day, most people start new business, buy land or jewellery and invest in something.
Another story is when the Pandavas were in exile in the forest, they were visited by many dignitaries, sages and kings. Draupadi, at some point found it difficult to prepare food as the Pandavas were destitute and didn’t have a lot to offer. One day, Lord Krishna came to visit the Pandavas. They received him and his men with utmost dignity. While the five brothers met him graciously, Draupadi did not come out of the house to greet him. Instead, she was weeping in the kitchen.
Lord Krishna saw an empty pot in which she had cooked some rice in the morning. There was nothing but a single grain of rice was left in the pot. Lord Krishna ate that single grain, and at that time, for that day, whole universe was satiated. He also blessed her with the Akshaya Patra, a vessel that could give unending supply of food every day. This day happened to be commemorated as Akshaya Tritiya every year.
Like other parts of the country, in Jammu also rush of buyers at the jewellery shops was witnessed in many city markets. The people were seen busy in making purchases of new ornaments and utensils as well. Similar reports were received from other major towns of the region.
This day is actually celebrated by fasting and worshipping Lord Vishnu with rice grains. Most people initiate newer beginnings or add up to their savings, open new audits. It is also considered as one of the luckiest days for people tying the nuptial knot.