Akshaya Tritiya (ଅକ୍ଷୟ ତୃତୀୟା) — How We Celebrate In Odisha ?

Akshaya Tritiya or Akshaya Trutiya — is an important festival for the people of Odisha which is generally observed on the third day of the bright half` of the lunar month of — “Baisakha” (Baisakha Suklapakhya Trutiya) of the traditional Hindu calendar. It is one of the four most auspicious days of the year for Hindus.

The word Akshaya, a Sanskrit word, literally means one that never diminishes, and the day is believed to bring good luck and success. It is widely celebrated in all parts of India by different sections of the society irrespective of their — religious faith and social grouping. The day is particularly considered auspicious for buying long term assets like gold and silver, including ornaments made of the same; diamond and other precious stones; and the real estate. The legend states that any venture initiated on the auspicious day of — Akshaya Tritiya shall continue to grow and bring prosperity. Hence, it is normal to see many of the new ventures, like starting a business, ground breaking for construction etc on the — Akshaya Tritiya Day.

Akshyaya Trutiya is exclusively an agricultural festival celebrated on the third day of the Hindu year through out — Odisha. On this day the farmer ceremonially starts sowing seeds in the field, especially paddy. Early in the morning, farmers in their respective homes arrange the materials for the ritual. After taking ablution in a river or tank they wear new clothes and carry the seeds in new baskets. In the field offerings are made to Lakshmi, the—  'Goddess of wealth', which the farmers do it themselves. Then they sow seeds ceremonially praying the Goddess for a rich bumper crop. In the evening feasts (strictly vegetarian) are arranged in respective homes. In western Orissa, this festival is called — 'Muthi Chhuan'. Eating of green leaves ('Shag') is forbidden for the day. It is observed by all farmers irrespective of their caste and creed.

Beginning of The Chandan Yatra 

The famous Chandan Yatra of — Lord Jagannath, which is observed in various other shrines of Odisha starts from this day. Moreover, from this auspicious day the carpenters start building the cars ('Ratha') of Lord Jagannath, Balabadra and Subhadra. On this day women also worship — 'Sasthi Debi' popularly called 'Sathi Duchhei'. The Goddess is said to be the guardian of children. She has also the power to bestow the women with children. Therefore, she is propitiated with great devotion.