AGARTALA, May 5 (TIWN): Akshaya Tritiya or Akha Teej is a highly auspicious day which falls on the third day after Amavasi (no moon) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha which is to be celebrated on May 9.

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

Marketers indulge in high voltage advertisement campaigns, especially the jewellery stores. Sales on Akshaya Tritiya day usually increase four to five times compared to normal days. Lightweight jewellery is always an option, but gold coins almost top the list of offerings and purchases.

Akshaya Tritiya, which is believed to bring good luck and success, is a holy day for Hindus and the Jains. It is considered to be an auspicious day to bring home gold.

Youngsters buy lightweight bracelets and chains while those who had planned their purchase much earlier opt for bangles.

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.

Parashuram Jayanti is also observed on Akshaya Tritiya day. 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). 

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.