Akshaya Tritiya 2016

On the Tritiya of the Shukla Paksha of Vaishakha, in summer — the third day of the bright fortnight. For this year's date, see the date shown above.

Akshaya means 'that which does not diminish'. The day is an abujh muhurta, held so wholesome that anything begun, given or acquired on it endures and grows. Several great beginnings — the Treta Yuga, the Ganga's descent, the writing of the Mahabharata — are placed on it.

No. The day's traditional heart is charity and the worship of Vishnu and Lakshmi. Buying gold is a later, popular custom drawn from the idea that what is gained today will not diminish, but it is not a requirement.

Giving to those in need is the day's foremost act. As it falls in summer, the gift of a filled water-pot, cooling foods, a fan or slippers, along with food, sesame and cloth, is especially valued.