The beginning of the Sat Yuga, or the Yuga of the Gods and Noble People, is marked by Akshaya Navami. As a result, this day is also known as Satya Yugadi. It’s also linked to the Amla fruit (Indian Gooseberry). The festival will be held today this year. Here’s why it is called Akshaya and is associated with Amla. 

In Sanskrit, Akshaya means “one who never diminishes” It also denotes prosperity, good fortune, and auspiciousness. It is also said that any noble deed performed with sincere intentions brings good karma. As a result, a person who performs charitable or good deeds can continue to reap the benefits indefinitely. Therefore, the day is known as Akshaya Navami. 

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On this day, devotees also worship the Amla (Indian gooseberry) tree in some regions. Amla is hailed as a storehouse of vital nutrients and a health tonic. As a thank you, the Amla tree is worshipped for providing a plethora of health benefits to those who consume its fruits. Hence, the name Amla Navami.

Some devotees bathe in holy rivers such as the Ganga, the Yamuna, the Godavari, and the Nardama, among others. Furthermore, because philanthropic deeds are encouraged, people perform Daan (charity) and provide Dakshina (financial assistance) to those in need. Finally, devotees in the Braj region perform a parikrama (circumambulation) of Mathura and Vrindavan, which is quite interesting.

The story of Akshaya Navami

Goddess Lakshmi wished to worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva during her visit to the earth, according to legend. She didn’t know how she could worship both of them at the same time, though. She was immediately reminded of the Amla fruit, which was enriched with qualities of basil and vine. Therefore, she ended up worshipping the Amla tree. The tradition of honouring the Amla tree on Akshaya Navami has continued since then.

As per another legend, a hunter was hunting in a forest. He rested under an amla tree and ate its fruits after searching for food. However, he died while attempting to climb down the tree. Lord Yama’s (the God of Death) agents arrived on the scene immediately, but were unable to lift his mortal remains. Lord Yama later learned from the sages that the hunter had consumed amla fruits before passing away. Hence , the age-old belief that Amla ilike s divine nectar for the human body is established by the legend.