New Delhi, April 19: On April 19, the auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya will be celebrated across the country, regarded as a highly propitious ‘self-sufficient moment’ of the year. This day is believed to bring fruitful outcomes for any endeavor undertaken. In South India, it is particularly seen as a time for new beginnings. Today is especially significant for starting new businesses, entering new homes, or celebrating weddings. Temples in South India conduct special rituals on Akshaya Tritiya, where Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped with sandalwood. Here’s a look at the unique rituals and temples in South India.
The Simhachalam Temple in Andhra Pradesh sees a grand celebration on Akshaya Tritiya. Here, the worship of Lord Vishnu in his “Varaha Narasimha” avatar takes place. On this day alone, the sandalwood paste is removed from the idol, which is otherwise applied daily throughout the year. Today, the deity reveals himself to devotees after shedding the thick layer of sandalwood.
At the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Lord Vishnu is adorned with divine decorations, and special offerings are made. Devotees visit the temple today to seek wealth and prosperity from Lord Vishnu.
In Kanchipuram, the Varadaraja Perumal Temple holds a special significance on Akshaya Tritiya. It is considered auspicious to witness golden and silver lizards, symbols of Goddess Lakshmi and Kuber. Special sweet rice and Kesari rice, known as payasam, are also offered to Lord Vishnu today.
The Sri Akshayapureshwarar Temple in Tamil Nadu is closely associated with Akshaya Tritiya, as it is the site where Lord Shiva granted Kuber the boon of becoming the god of wealth. On this day, cold water is offered to Lord Shiva, and devotees pray for blessings of wealth and prosperity from Kuber.
The Rameshwar Temple in Tamil Nadu is also notable. Included among the 12 Jyotirlingas, devotees bathe in the waters of 22 sacred ponds within the temple complex on Akshaya Tritiya. They worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, believing it brings harmony to family disputes and ensures a happy married life. Additionally, special prayers and rituals are conducted in various other temples dedicated to Kuber and Lord Vishnu across South India. Almost every temple offers sandalwood to the deities and dresses them in yellow garments.
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P.S./A.S.
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