Akshaya Navami, observed
on the ninth day (Navami) of the Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month, is a sacred
Hindu ritual celebrated with immense devotion across India. Falling between
October and November in the Gregorian calendar, this day holds the same spiritual
weight as Akshaya Tritiya—both symbolizing eternal rewards and divine grace.
Spiritual Significance
The word Akshaya
means "never diminishing." It is believed that any devotional act,
charity, or prayer performed on this day yields inexhaustible benefits—not just
in this life, but across future births. Akshaya Navami is celebrated two days
before Dev Uthani Ekadashi, marking a spiritually charged period in the
Hindu calendar.
According to legends,
this day marks the beginning of Satyug, the first and purest era of
mankind. Hence, it is also known as Satya Yugadi. The day is ideal for
performing Daan-Punya (charitable and virtuous deeds), which are said to
bring lifelong and eternal rewards.
Amla Navami &
Regional Celebrations
In many regions, Akshaya
Navami is also observed as Amla Navami. The Amla tree (Indian
Gooseberry) is worshipped as the abode of all deities. Devotees eat and donate
Amla fruits, believing it brings health and divine blessings.
In West Bengal, the day
coincides with Jagaddhatri Puja, where Goddess Jagaddhatri—the
embodiment of divine strength—is worshipped with grandeur and devotion.
Another deeply revered
tradition is the Parikrama (circumambulation) of Mathura-Vrindavan.
Thousands of devotees gather to walk the sacred path, seeking spiritual merit
and divine grace.
Rituals and Observances
- Holy Bath at Sunrise:
Devotees begin the day with a ritual bath in the Ganges or other sacred
rivers.
- Riverbank Puja:
Elaborate pujas are performed under priestly guidance. Thirty
turmeric-drawn squares (Kotha) are filled with grains and pulses,
symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
- Fasting and Bhajans:
Women observe a strict fast, refraining from food and engaging in
devotional singing and kirtans.
- Amla Worship:
Worshipping the Amla tree and consuming its fruit is considered
auspicious.
- Charity and Secret Donations:
Giving to the needy—especially in secret—is highly encouraged. It is
believed that such acts never perish and continue to benefit the giver
eternally.
Mythological Importance
Akshaya Navami is also
known as Kushmanda Navami. As per scriptures, Lord Vishnu defeated the
demon Kushmanda on this day, halting the spread of Adharma
(unrighteousness). This victory reinforces the day’s association with
righteousness, abundance, and spiritual awakening.
Path to Moksha
Prayers offered on
Akshaya Navami are believed to fulfill all desires and guide the devotee toward
moksha—liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is a day to
align oneself with divine energies through devotion, charity, and purity of
heart.
2025 Date: October 31.
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