According to Hindu mythology, on this day the Treta Yuga began; and the Ganges River, the most holy and sacred river of India, descended to the earth from the heaven. Akshaya Tritiya is traditionally observed as the birthday of Parusurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Puranas spoke about how he reclaimed the land from the sea. The Sun and Moon are astrologically believed to be at their most exalted equal brightness on this day.
Akshyaya Trutiya is exclusively an agricultural festival celebrated on the third day of the Hindu year through out Orissa. On this day the farmer ceremonially starts so wing seeds in the field, especially paddy. Early in the morning, farmers in their respective homes arrange the materials for the ritual. After taking ablution in a river or tank they wear new clothes and carry the seeds in new baskets. In the fiel d offerings are made to Lakshmi, the ‘Goddess of wealth’, which the farmers do it themselves. Then they sow seeds ceremonially praying the Goddess for a rich bumper crop. In the evening feasts (strictly vegetarian) are arra nged in respective homes. In western Orissa, this
festival is called ‘ Muthi Chhuan’ . Eating of green leaves (‘Shag’) is forbidden for the day. It is observed by all farmers irrespective of their caste and creed.
