Contents[hide]
Introduction
Akshaya Navami is a revered festival celebrated on the ninth day (Navami) of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing moon phase) in the month of Kartik, according to the traditional calendar. It typically falls between October and November on the Gregorian calendar.In 2024, Akshaya Navami will be observed on Sunday, November 10.This day holds immense spiritual significance, as it is believed to have marked the beginning of Satya Yuga, the golden era of truth and righteousness, and is thus known as Satya Yugadi. It shares similar importance with Akshaya Tritiya, which heralded the start of the Treta Yuga. The term ‘Akshaya’ translates to “never diminishing,” emphasizing that good deeds, charity, and prayers performed on this day yield eternal benefits across lifetimes. Devotees engage in rituals such as fasting, offering prayers, and performing charitable acts, believing that these actions not only enhance prosperity and well-being in the present life but also secure blessings for future births.
- Sunrise – November 10, 6:41 AM
- Sunset – November 10, 5:39 PM
- Navami Tithi Timing – November 09, 10:45 PM – November 10, 09:01 PM
- Akshaya Navami Puja Muhurat – November 10, 06:41 AM – 12:10 PM
The Legend of Akshaya Navami: The Beginning of Satya Yuga
Akshaya Navami holds deep spiritual and historical significance in Vedic culture. It is believed that the day marks the beginning of Satya Yuga, the era of truth, virtue, and moral righteousness, known as the “Golden Age.” Satya Yuga is described in the scriptures as a period when humanity was at its spiritual peak, living in harmony with nature and adhering to the highest ethical standards. To commemorate this transition into a divine era, Akshaya Navami, also known as Satya Yugadi (the start of Satya Yuga), is celebrated with devotion, fasting, and charitable acts.
The name “Akshaya” means “imperishable” or “never diminishing,” reflecting the belief that the merits earned through good deeds on this day provide lasting benefits across lifetimes. Acts of charity, prayers, and rituals performed on Akshaya Navami not only bless individuals in their present life but also ensure spiritual growth and well-being in future births.
In another legend from the Puranas, it is said that on this day, Lord Vishnu vanquished a powerful demon named Kushmanda, who was spreading Adharma (unrighteousness) across the universe. This victory restored balance and righteousness, further enhancing the day’s importance. As a result, Akshaya Navami is also known as Kushmanda Navami, symbolizing the triumph of Dharma over Adharma.
The festival encourages devotees to reflect on the values of truth, kindness, and righteousness that were central to Satya Yuga. Through fasting, worship, and generous donations, people seek divine blessings, prosperity, and spiritual liberation. In various parts of India, worshippers also circumambulate sacred places like Mathura and Vrindavan, believing it grants them happiness and endless blessings. Akshaya Navami thus serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless importance of virtue and selfless action.
In many parts of India, Akshaya Navami is celebrated as Amla Navami, highlighting the importance of the Amla tree (Indian gooseberry). The Amla tree is revered as the abode of gods and goddesses, symbolizing purity and divine presence. Devotees worship the tree by offering milk, fruits, flowers, and lighting lamps at its roots. They also perform a ritual Parikrama (circumambulation) around the tree, praying for good health, prosperity, and spiritual merit. Consuming Amla fruit on this day is believed to bring auspicious blessings and improve health. Additionally, many devotees distribute Amla fruits as part of charitable activities, as giving donations on Akshaya Navami is considered to yield lasting rewards.
Parikrama of Mathura-Vrindavan
One of the most significant observances of Akshaya Navami is the Parikrama (circumambulation) of the holy cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, which are deeply associated with Lord Krishna. Devotees from all over the country undertake this pilgrimage, walking around these sacred places to seek divine blessings. It is believed that performing the Parikrama on this auspicious day ensures the fulfilment of wishes, prosperity, and happiness. Mathura and Vrindavan become vibrant with throngs of worshippers, chanting devotional hymns and participating in prayers, making the day spiritually uplifting.Jagaddhatri Puja in West Bengal
In West Bengal, Akshaya Navami coincides with the grand celebration of Jagaddhatri Puja. On this day, devotees worship Goddess Jagaddhatri, the divine caretaker of the universe, with elaborate rituals and devotion. The celebrations involve beautifully decorated idols of the goddess, vibrant processions, and community feasts. Temples are adorned with lights and flowers, and devotees participate in devotional singing and rituals throughout the day. Jagaddhatri Puja reflects the cultural and spiritual vibrancy of Bengal, drawing thousands of devotees who seek the blessings of the goddess for protection, prosperity, and well-being.Observing the rituals of Akshaya Navami with sincerity and devotion is believed to bring lifelong benefits. These customs are designed to align the individual with divine blessings, ensuring prosperity, spiritual merit, and fulfilment. Below is a detailed overview of the primary rituals performed on this sacred day:
Sacred Bath at Sunrise
Devotees begin the day by waking up during the Brahma Muhurta (between 3:30 AM and 5:30 AM. After completing their morning routines, they take a holy dip in the Ganges or other sacred rivers. Bathing in these waters is believed to cleanse the body and soul, paving the way for spiritual growth. This ritual sets a sacred tone for the day and symbolizes the purification of one’s inner self.Creating ‘Kotha’ with Food Grains
A unique ritual performed on Akshaya Navami involves creating 30 small squares, known as Kothas, at the place of worship. These squares are drawn with turmeric powder, symbolizing auspiciousness. Each square is then filled with various grains, pulses, and food items, representing the wish for an abundant harvest and a continuous supply of food throughout the year. This custom is particularly significant for farmers, who pray for fertility and prosperity in their fields.Performing Pujas and Chanting Vedic Mantras
After setting up the worship area, devotees perform elaborate pujas by chanting Vedic mantras. These rituals are intended to invoke divine blessings for prosperity and abundance. Farmers, in particular, participate wholeheartedly, seeking the favour of the gods for a rich harvest. The chanting of mantras enhances the spiritual atmosphere, ensuring that participants connect with the divine.Fasting and Bhajan-Kirtan
Many women observe a strict fast on Akshaya Navami, abstaining from food and water throughout the day. Fasting on this day is believed to purify the body and mind, promoting spiritual discipline. Devotees also participate in devotional singing through bhajans and kirtans, creating a joyful and uplifting environment that fosters collective devotion.Worship of the Amla Tree
In several regions, the Amla tree (Indian gooseberry) plays a central role in the rituals. The tree, believed to be the abode of gods and goddesses, is worshipped with offerings of milk, flowers, and fruits. Devotees also perform Parikrama (circumambulation) around the tree, as it is thought to ward off negativity and bring health, prosperity, and divine blessings. Consuming Amla on this day is considered highly auspicious, promoting good health and well-being.Charity and Donations
Charity, or Daan, is a cornerstone of Akshaya Navami rituals. It is believed that any donations made on this day yield eternal benefits, positively impacting the giver in both this life and future births. Devotees are encouraged to donate food, clothes, money, or other essentials to the needy. Secret donations, made without seeking recognition, are considered particularly meritorious. By giving according to one’s financial capacity, devotees align with the spirit of selflessness and compassion, earning divine blessings that never diminish.A powerful legend linked with Amla Navami speaks of redemption, transformation, and the power of sincere devotion. The story takes place in Kashi (modern-day Varanasi). It tells of a woman who committed a terrible sin—she sacrificed an innocent child in an attempt to appease Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. However, instead of gaining favour, she was cursed and afflicted with leprosy as punishment for her grievous act. Consumed by guilt and overwhelmed by suffering, the woman desperately sought a way to atone for her sin. She approached Mother Ganga, the divine river goddess, asking for guidance. Mother Ganga, known for her compassion and ability to purify sins, advised the woman to worship the Amla tree (Indian gooseberry) on the auspicious day of Navami during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) of the Kartik month. Following the goddess’s instructions, the woman approached the Amla tree with utmost sincerity and devotion. She offered prayers, circumambulated the tree, and fasted for several days. Additionally, she consumed the Amla fruit as an act of faith, believing in its spiritual and medicinal power. Her dedication paid off—she was miraculously cured of leprosy, symbolizing the removal of her sins. To her further joy, she was also blessed with a child, a divine reward for her sincere repentance. This legend conveys the profound spiritual message that Akshaya Navami, celebrated as Amla Navami in many regions, holds the power of redemption. It teaches that even those burdened by grave mistakes can find relief through faith, penance, and self-discipline. The tale underscores the significance of the Amla tree not just as a symbol of health, but also as a medium of divine grace. Akshaya Navami thus reminds devotees that no matter how dark their past may be, sincere repentance and charitable actions can lead to a new beginning.
Akshaya Navami is celebrated for its association with unending prosperity, purity, and divine grace. This day is not only about material success but also about spiritual growth, encouraging devotees to align their actions with dharma (righteousness).
Fulfillment of Desires and Prosperity
Prayers, rituals, and offerings made on Akshaya Navami are thought to attract material wealth, ensuring abundance in the devotee’s life. It is a favoured time for initiating new ventures or making significant investments, as it is believed that actions taken on this day will flourish without decline.Path to Moksha (Liberation)
Akshaya Navami is a spiritually potent day. Devotees engage in acts of charity, fasting, and meditation, with the intent of attaining inner peace and moving closer to moksha—freedom from the cycle of birth and death.Eternal Rewards for Good Deeds
The merit gained through selfless deeds on Akshaya Navami is said to remain undiminished across lifetimes. Whether it is feeding the needy, donating clothes, or supporting spiritual causes, such acts bring both immediate joy and lasting spiritual benefits.Cleansing of Sins and Well-being
The day also symbolizes a fresh start. Through devotion, fasting, and rituals, devotees seek to purify their souls, shed past karma, and experience renewed well-being. Praying to deities and nature elements such as the Amla tree is believed to help remove negativity and attract positive energies.Conclusion
Akshaya Navami is not merely a religious festival; it embodies the eternal values of devotion, generosity, and spiritual renewal. Observing this auspicious day through fasting, rituals, worship, and charitable acts provides an opportunity to connect with the divine and receive blessings that extend beyond the present lifetime. Worshipping the sacred Amla tree, engaging in selfless giving, and following age-old customs symbolize the desire for personal growth, prosperity, and inner peace. The significance of Akshaya Navami lies in its promise of unending rewards—both material and spiritual. It reminds devotees to embrace righteousness (dharma) and balance worldly pursuits with spiritual aspirations. Acts of kindness performed on this day are believed to accumulate everlasting merit, enhancing one’s journey toward moksha (liberation). This Akshaya Navami, embrace the spirit of devotion and generosity. Perform good deeds, immerse yourself in the sacred energies of the day, and experience the joy of giving along with spiritual fulfilment.
