Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, sending early Akshay Tritiya greetings to one billion Hindus of the world, has asked them each to take a vow of undertaking at least one charitable project during the coming year for less fortunate members of the community. Akshaya Tritiya 2017 date is April 28|29.
Zed, who is the President of Universal Society of Hinduism, in a release in Nevada (USA) today, wished joy, blessings and prosperity to all Hindus on Akshay Tritiya, which falls on May six and is considered one of the most auspicious days of Hindu calendar.
Quoting scriptures, Rajan Zed said that charity was a duty, which should be undertaken with sympathy and modesty. He advised Hindus to focus on inner search, stay pure, explore the vast wisdom of scriptures, make spirituality more attractive to youth and children, stay away from the greed, and always keep God in your life.
Stressing renunciation, Zed pointed out that three opening words of ancient scripture Isha Upanishad: “tena tyaktena bhunjita” said it all—“By renouncing it {the world}, enjoy it.” Bhagavad-Gita, another ancient scripture,also promised “freedom through renunciation”.
Consumerism had resulted in neglecting spiritual values, Rajan Zed argued and quoted Bhagavad-Gita, which says: there are three gates to self-destructive hell—greed, anger, and desire. Abandon these three. A person freed from these three gates of darkness, seeks what is best and attains life’s highest goal.
Akshay Tritiya, also called Akha Teej and Navanna Parvam, is associated with Lord Vishnu, sages Parshuram and Vedvyas, holy river Ganga, and is considered very auspicious to start new ventures. Charity on this occasion is believed to bring many fold blessings and is very fruitful. Activities on this day include performing Kubera Lakshmi puja, observing fast, taking a dip in Ganga and other holy waters, making a charity, buying gold and other jewelry, launching a meaningful activity, etc., and is occasion for many weddings.
Hinduism is oldest and third largest religion of the world and moksh (liberation) is its ultimate goal.