Key Points

Thousands of devotees took a holy dip in the Ganga river in Varanasi to mark Akshaya Tritiya, a significant Hindu and Jain festival. The day is considered auspicious for prayers, donations, and gold purchases, with demand remaining strong despite rising prices. Gold has seen a 20-25% annual return over the past two years, attracting more investors. Experts, however, anticipate a price correction in the coming months.

Key Points: Devotees Take Holy Ganga Dip on Akshaya Tritiya in Varanasi

  • Devotees perform rituals & donations on Akshaya Tritiya
  • Gold demand remains strong despite price surge
  • India imported 802 tonnes of gold in 2024
  • Experts predict pullback in gold prices soon
2 min read

Devotees take a holy dip in Ganga on Akshaya Tritiya

Thousands gather in Varanasi for sacred Ganga dip on Akshaya Tritiya, while gold demand surges despite rising prices.

"Gold has delivered an annual return of 20-25% over the last two years – Rajesh Rokde, GJC Chairman"

Varanasi, April 30

Devotees were seen taking a dip in the holy Ganga river on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya on Wednesday in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

People were seen performing prayers, donating fruits, clothes and food.

Celebrated on April 30 this year, Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej or Akti, is primarily observed among the Jain and Hindu communities. Additionally, the day is considered auspicious for purchasing gold, donating food items, and clothing, among other things.

People pray for the well-being of their loved ones.

Gold demand in India is expected to remain strong during Akshaya Tritiya this year, despite the surge in prices, as buyers are drawn by the high returns seen over the past two years.

Experts say that despite a surge in rates, there will be accelerated consumer interest in the yellow metal with people moving towards lightweight and studded jewellery.

Commodity experts, however, believe that there will likely be a pullback in gold prices in the coming months, following the recent sharp uptick, with prices crossing Rs 1 lakh per 10 grams.

Rajesh Rokde, Chairman of the Gem and Jewellery Council of India (GJC), told ANI that gold has delivered an annual return of 20-25 per cent over the last two years.

"Last year, on Akshaya Tritiya, the gold price was Rs 72,000/ 10 gm, and in 2023 it was Rs 58,000. With an annual growth rate of 20-25 per cent, this steady increase is attracting numerous buyers. Because of this rally in gold, people are increasingly investing in it due to the strong returns over the past two years," he said.

Rokde added that India imported 802 tonnes of gold in 2024, compared to 741 tonnes in 2023, indicating a clear rise in both value and volume of demand. This suggests that, despite the price increase, gold consumption continues to rise annually.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Beautiful to see devotees keeping our traditions alive! 🙏 The Ganga aarti in Varanasi is truly magical during Akshaya Tritiya. Though gold prices are high, it's understandable why people still invest - it's not just about returns but also blessings for the family.
R
Rahul S.
While the spiritual aspect is important, I wish more emphasis was given to cleaning the Ganga. Seeing devotees take dips is heartwarming, but we must ensure the water is pure too. The government's Namami Gange project needs more public participation.
A
Anjali M.
Gold at ₹1 lakh per 10gm is crazy! 😳 My mother still bought a small coin for puja though - she says "Akshaya Tritiya ka sona toh lena hi padta hai". Traditional beliefs are stronger than market rates it seems!
V
Vikram J.
The economic angle is interesting - 802 tonnes imported! Shows our cultural practices directly impact national economy. But I hope people are also donating to the needy as the tradition suggests, not just buying gold. The real "akshaya" (never diminishing) is good karma.
S
Sunita P.
My family has been visiting Haridwar every Akshaya Tritiya for generations. The energy is unmatched! Though I must say, the crowds have increased tremendously in recent years. Authorities should manage the rush better for safety and better experience.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50